Mail blitz by prison kin vs. vending plan

FAMILY AND friends of state prisoners launched a postcard campaign protesting the Cuomo administration’s new system requiring they use selected online vendors to send packages to inmates.

The inmate advocates began sending postcards on Wednesday urging the Department of Corrections to stop its pilot program launched earlier this month. They are upset because the vendors charge more than local stores for simple items like cookies, toiletries and clothes.

“Dear Governor Cuomo, this holiday season is about giving, not taking away,” one of the postcards reads. “I object to the new ... package rules.”

For decades, friends and relatives were allowed to bring prisoners clothing, books and food during visits or send them through the mail. Officers search the packages before giving to prisoners. But prison officials say the new system — operational in three prisons — will reduce the amount of contraband smuggled into prisons.

Inmate advocates are worried the new program will make prisoner packages unaffordable.

Only one of the vendors for the department’s package pilot carries tampons, charging $10.50 for a box of 40, nearly double the price at Target and other local stores.

State prison officials say there may be an “adjustment” in prices based on feedback from families.