How Much Do Sweatshirts Cost Inside SCI Jails?

When it comes to prisoners inside the State Correctional Institutions (SCI), there are a few things that are essential to their daily lives, and one of them is clothing. Specifically, sweatshirts are a popular item that most inmates own due to the cold temperatures inside the prison cells. But how much do these sweatshirts cost, and where do prisoners go to purchase them within the SCI system?

Here's an in-depth look at the price of sweatshirts inside SCI jails.

Sweatshirts Are a Necessity

Prisoners can feel the chill inside their cells, especially during the colder months of the year. With the air conditioning inside most prisons being set at 68 degrees Fahrenheit or less, many inmates need a way to stay warm, and sweaters and sweatshirts are some of the best options available to them.

Many prisoners prefer sweatshirts over sweaters because they are more durable, and they often come with hoods that can provide an extra layer of warmth. Moreover, sweatshirts are usually allowed in many different settings, meaning inmates can wear them during activities such as yard time and visitation hours.

Prices of Sweatshirts Inside SCI Jails

The prices of sweatshirts inside State Correctional Institutions (SCI) are relatively affordable for prisoners. On average, an inmate can purchase a sweatshirt for $15-30, depending on the institution. These prices are much lower than those outside prison walls, where a decent quality sweatshirt can go for $50 or more.

However, it's important to note that sweatshirts are not just readily available inside an SCI jail. In truth, most prison systems run their own commissary stores where inmates can buy items like toiletries, snacks, and clothing. But there's no guarantee that the commissary in one SCI will offer the same prices as another.

Also, the availability of sweatshirts is not always guaranteed, and it's not uncommon for commissary stores to run out of stock. When this occurs, prisoners may need to wait several weeks or even months before the commissary restocks.

Local Policies and Practices

Another factor that affects the cost of sweatshirts in SCI jails is the local policies and practices. Depending on the specific prison or jail one is incarcerated in, the availability of sweatshirts and the prices may vary.

For example, some facilities may offer sweatshirts as a standard issue to every inmate, while others might not. Additionally, the prices could fluctuate based on different factors such as the region, the season, and the quality of the sweatshirt itself.

To avoid these and other issues, many prisoners turn to outside suppliers who can send the items directly to the prisoners' addresses. Although this may come at an additional cost, it is often a reliable way to get the items they need, when they need them.

In conclusion, sweatshirts are an essential item for prisoners inside SCI jails, but the prices and availability are highly determined by specific local policies and practices. One can purchase a sweatshirt for between $15 and $30 at a commissary within the SCI system. However, there's no guarantee that the available sweatshirts are of good quality or that they fit one's specific size. Nonetheless, it is widely acknowledged that the prices of such items inside prison systems are significantly lower than those outside the prison walls.