Frequently Asked Questions

Not at this time. Thelma Ellis Sixteen Foundation, Inc. is not yet a registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, so donations are not currently tax-deductible. We are actively working toward obtaining this designation. We will update our supporters when that status is granted.

The quickest way is online: visit our Donate page and give a one-time or monthly gift. Where online card giving is enabled, checkout is handled securely by Stripe and accepts major credit and debit cards, plus Apple Pay and Google Pay. You can also give via PayPal, Zelle, or bank transfer — email us at corporate [at] thelmaellis.org or call (645) 239-1600 and we'll respond within 24 hours with secure payment instructions.

For online gifts we accept major credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay through our secure Stripe checkout — we never see or store your card details. We also accept PayPal, Zelle, and bank transfer; just contact us and we'll share the details.

When you choose “Monthly” on the Donate page, your gift is charged automatically each month so your support keeps reaching students without you having to remember. You stay in control at all times: visit Manage a monthly gift to receive a secure link where you can update your card, change the amount, or cancel anytime. You can also email us at corporate [at] thelmaellis.org and we'll take care of it.

Donations are gifts and are generally non-refundable. That said, mistakes happen — if you made a duplicate gift, entered the wrong amount, or believe a charge was made in error, please contact us within 30 days and we'll make it right, including issuing a refund where appropriate.

100% of donations go directly to students and schools in Jamaica. Funds support scholarships (tuition, uniforms, books, and supplies) and school resource donations (computers, printers, stationery, and internet connectivity). The foundation is run entirely by volunteers with no paid staff, so your gift goes to the cause, not overhead.

Scholarships are open to deserving students in Jamaica and are awarded on an objective, non-discriminatory basis. Selection is based on a student's PEP (Primary Exit Profile) results, financial need, and personal potential. Applications are accepted year-round through our Scholarship Application page; our Scholarship Committee reviews each one, the Board approves recipients, and awards are typically confirmed ahead of the new school year. Recipients keep their award each year by remaining in good academic standing. Because awards are tied to the school calendar and available funds, we encourage students to apply as early as possible.

Absolutely. We welcome memorial and honorary donations. Simply mention the name you'd like to honor when you give or contact us, and we will acknowledge the dedication in our communications. The foundation itself was established in memory of Thelma Zenaida Ellis, so honoring loved ones through education is very close to our heart.

Yes! Beyond donating, you can volunteer your time or skills, spread the word on social media, organize a fundraiser in your community, or donate school supplies directly. Contact us to discuss partnership and sponsorship opportunities for businesses.