TDCJ - O.B. Ellis Unit (E1)

You can support your loved ones at Ellis Unit on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 936-295-5756.

Located at 1697 FM 980 in Huntsville, TX, Ellis Unit carefully assigns inmates based on their custody level, considering factors like criminal history. Ellis Unit 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 TDCJ - O.B. Ellis Unit (E1) 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 Ellis Unit is a male correctional facility with a total capacity of 2,073 inmates, including a trusty camp that is currently idled. It houses individuals across custody levels G1-G5 and those in security detention. Spread over 11,427 acres, the facility boasts robust agricultural operations conducted in collaboration with Estelle Unit, encompassing diverse activities such as a cotton gin, cow/calf operation, egg laying operation, and more.

In addition to agriculture, the Ellis Unit operates several manufacturing and logistics facilities, including a bus repair facility, garment factory, and chair factory. Facility operations are managed from the Region I Maintenance Headquarters, with additional provisions for asbestos management and in-service training.

Medical services at the Ellis Unit are comprehensive, offering ambulatory medical, dental, and mental health care. The facility is equipped with housing that accommodates individuals requiring CPAP machines. These services are overseen and managed by UTMB.

Special treatment programs focus on rehabilitation and include the Gang Renouncement and Disassociation Process (GRAD), Returning Population Gang Renouncement and Disassociation (RP-GRAD), and the Champions Youth Program (CYP), addressing specific needs for rehabilitation and reintegration.

Educational programs at Ellis Unit cover a wide spectrum, from literacy and special education to career and technology programs offered in partnership with Lee College. Vocational training includes opportunities in cabinetmaking, horticulture, and heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.

Additional services and initiatives include faith-based dormitories, peer education, reentry planning, and the GO KIDS Initiative, highlighting the facility's commitment to holistic rehabilitation. Community work projects extend the impact of the facility beyond its walls, providing valuable services to county agencies.

Volunteer initiatives play a vital role in augmenting rehabilitation efforts, offering support in substance abuse education, literacy, life skills, and religious or faith-based studies and activities. These initiatives foster personal growth and development among inmates, contributing to their successful reintegration into society.