Mailing or Delivering Packages to Persons in Our Care

The Department provides persons in DOC’s care with basic clothing, footwear, bedding, hygiene items, and other essential items during the new admission process and throughout their incarceration. Generally, items that are provided by the Department cannot be mailed to or received by persons in our care (with some limited exceptions as outlined below.)
 
If these items are received, the individual may choose to have the item returned to the visitor or sender, donated to an outside charitable organization, or destroyed.  Any cost associated with returning an item to the sender is the responsibility of the person in care.
 
Items Provided by the Department

• One (1) pair of footwear/shoes, issued in the size reported by the person in our care. If unavailable, the next larger available size may be issued temporarily; reported size to be issued when available
• One (1) pair of work boots, spray-painted with a bold color to distinguish them as departmental property - limited to individuals assigned to construction, mess hall, or special work cadres
• Four (4) pairs of white underpants (boxers)
• Four (4) white T-shirts
• Four (4) white bras **
• Four (4) panties **
• Four (4) pairs of white socks
• Two (2) short-sleeved tan uniform shirts (issued June 1 through September 30, or upon request)
• Two (2) pairs of tan uniform shorts (issued June 1 through September 30, or upon request)
• Two (2) long-sleeved tan uniform shirts (issued October 1 through May 31, or upon request)
• Two (2) pairs of tan uniform pants
• One (1) thermal long-sleeved shirt (issued October 1 through May 31, or upon request)
• One (1) pair of thermal pants (issued October 1 through May 31, or upon request)
• One (1) tan crewneck sweater (issued October 1 through May 31, or upon request)
• Soap
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Drinking cup
• Toilet paper
• Comb and/or brush
• Necessary menstrual products including sanitary napkins and tampons
• One (1) washcloth
• Two (2) sheets
• Two (2) towels
• One (1) pillow
• One (1) pillowcase
• One (1) fire retardant covered mattress
• One (1) blanket (additional provided as requested)

Items That May Be Mailed or Delivered

Permissible packages may be delivered during in-person visiting hours at the Bail and Package Reception area next to Central Visits on Rikers Island. Packages with permissible items may also be sent by mail.

Packages may not exceed 15 pounds and must be less than 24 inches wide, 12 inches high, and 24 inches deep.

All packages and items are subject to search. Any item that presents a safety, security, or contraband concern may be rejected. Any package containing contraband, or an item that is already provided by the Department, will be denied.  Any person who introduces or attempts to introduce contraband into a Department facility may be subject to arrest and prosecution.

• Toiletries and food items are prohibited. They must be purchased by the person in care in the commissary.
• Cash for persons in our care fund accounts is no longer being accepted by mail.  Only money orders and cashier checks will be accepted by mail.
  
  

Only the items listed below may be sent by mail or dropped off for a person in our care.