FDC-Northwest Florida Reception Center

You can support your loved ones at NWFRC on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 850-773-6100.

Located at 4455 Sam Mitchell Dr in Chipley, FL, NWFRC carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. NWFRC 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-Northwest Florida Reception Center 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.

The NWFRC is a male adult state prison in Florida that accommodates up to 1,303 inmates and offers a diverse range of rehabilitation and personal development programs overseen by the Florida DOC. Satellite Units include the NWFRC Annex and MTC-Panama City CRC, providing management for inmates nearing the completion of their sentences. These programs, endorsed by the FDC, aim to enhance the chances of successful reentry upon completion.

Academic programs such as Adult Basic Education and General Educational Development (GED) are available, alongside vocational programs like the Electrician Certification Program and HVAC Certification Program. Substance abuse programs, including Intensive Outpatient and Prevention, address addiction issues among inmates.

Chaplaincy services, including Celebrate Recovery and Discipleship, cater to spiritual needs, while personal growth programs like Kairos Weekends and Most Excellent Way foster holistic development. Worship services and religious education classes contribute to inmates' spiritual and moral growth.

Institutional betterment programs such as the 100-Hour Transition Program and Anger & Stress Management aim to facilitate personal growth and readiness for reentry. Additionally, initiatives like the Canine Obedience Program (Top Dog) and Peer to Peer program offer unique opportunities for skill development and social interaction.

The availability of library programs, law library programs, and the Voluntary Literacy Program further supports inmates' educational and intellectual development. Overall, NWFRC is committed to providing comprehensive programs that prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society.

The state prison is designed with "pods," featuring a large common area with affixed tables and attached seats, and individual cells typically on two levels. 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.