FDC-Union Correctional Institution

You can support your loved ones at Union CI on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 386-431-2000.

Located at 25636 NE SR-16 in Raiford, FL, Union CI carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. Union CI offers diverse educational and vocational programs aimed at equipping offenders for successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism. Through these initiatives, inmates gain skills and confidence, fostering personal growth and resilience.

When someone you care about ends up in a state prison, it can be tough to navigate the ins and outs of the system. From figuring out how to stay in touch to understanding what you can do to make their time easier, it can feel overwhelming. That's where this webpage comes in handy. It's here to help you get the lowdown on FDC-Union Correctional Institution so you can stay connected and support your loved one during their time inside.

Communication is important, the prison offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

While incarcerated, reading is often the best use of time. Please note that books and magazines, puzzles, and word searches ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. Prisons and jails enforce this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Union Correctional Institution, situated in Raiford, stands as a level VII facility known for housing approximately 1,486 adult male inmates. Notably, it accommodates maximum-security inmates, making it one of the few facilities in the state to do so. In the past, Union Correctional was recognized as home to Florida's Death Row. The institution also caters to inmates across other custody levels, including closed, medium, and minimum security.

While vocational and substance abuse programs are currently not listed as offerings at this facility, Union Correctional Institution provides various academic and institutional betterment programs aimed at promoting personal growth and rehabilitation among its inmate population.

Academic Programs include Adult Basic Education and General Educational Development, providing inmates with opportunities to enhance their literacy and educational levels. Additionally, Special Education Services are available for inmates in close management.

Chaplaincy Services at Union Correctional Institution encompass a range of faith-based programs, including chapel services, religious education, and faith- and character-based dormitories. These programs aim to address the spiritual needs of inmates and promote moral and ethical development.

Institutional Betterment Programs offered at the institution cover diverse areas such as cognitive-behavioral interventions (e.g., Thinking for a Change), recreational activities (e.g., sports leagues, weight training), pre-release counseling, and wellness education. These programs are designed to foster personal development, prepare inmates for reintegration into society, and promote overall well-being. Union Correctional also participates in the P.R.I.D.E. (Prison Rehabilitative Industries and Diversified Enterprises) program, providing inmates with opportunities for vocational training and meaningful work experiences. Inmates can engage in various work assignments, including roles in a dental lab, slaughterhouse, metal production, tag plant, cattle operations, and forestry division, contributing to their skill development and potential for successful reentry into society.

The Union Correctional Institution, situated in unincorporated Union County, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1913. Originally known as the State Prison Farm, it was created to house infirm inmates who could not be leased to private businesses. At its inception, the prison had a population of around 600 inmates, both male and female, and covered an expansive 18,000-acre property, primarily utilized for farming activities.

Over the years, the institution underwent several expansions and restructurings. Notably, it was one of the last prisons in the United States to abolish the practice of convict leasing in 1923. In 1955, the East Unit was established, subsequently becoming the new Florida State Prison in July 1972, while the original site was redesignated as the Union Correctional Institution.

Throughout its history, the institution has seen various changes and developments. The construction of key facilities such as "The Rock" in 1928 and the "Flat Top" maximum security building in 1935 marked significant milestones in its expansion. Additionally, the prison has housed diverse inmate populations, including both male and female offenders, though the West Unit, initially built for female inmates, ceased operation for that purpose in 1954.

Tragically, instances of violence have occurred within the institution, such as the stabbing death of a Corrections Officer in 1983. Despite such incidents, the institution has persisted, adapting to changing needs and standards within the corrections system.

Today, the Union Correctional Institution remains one of the largest prisons in the Florida system, housing adult male inmates across various security levels. It continues to play a crucial role in the state's corrections infrastructure, providing housing, security, and rehabilitation services for its inmate population.

Inmates spend certain times in their cells and other times congregating in the pod for activities like playing cards, games, reading, or watching television. Movement outside the pod, such as trips to the commissary, library, or recreation area, occurs under the constant supervision of unarmed correctional officers. 

Connect with your inmate

The prison offers a phone program for outbound calls only, with inmates unable to receive incoming calls. Accepting collect calls can be expensive, sometimes exceeding $10 per call. Alternatively, setting up an account through a third-party phone company may entail high fees per minute of usage. Click here for discounts on inmate calls, especially if the communication with your inmate is frequent. It's important to remember that all phone calls are recorded, and discussing sensitive legal matters over these lines is discouraged.

Books and magazines ordered for inmates must come directly from the publisher. This policy ensures that the items are new, untampered, and comply with the facility's regulations. The Jail enforces this rule to prevent the introduction of contraband or prohibited materials. By restricting orders to publishers, the facility can better maintain security and control over the content entering the institution. Any books or magazines not received directly from the publisher will be rejected and not delivered to the inmate. You may, however, send letters and selfies to inmates with this easy-to-use app, packages starting at only $8.00.

Inmate workers are chosen based on conduct and cooperation with staff. Participation in the community service program can sometimes reduce sentences. Commissary is available weekly, with orders submitted via kiosk two days in advance. On holidays, there may be increased spending limits. Upon receiving commissary items, inmates must present their ID, check their order, and sign for it in the presence of the commissary employee. Indigent inmates are provided with all essential basic hygiene items including USPS stamps and writing materials.