Colorful flower arrangements placed in front of memorial stones or plaques, with a large text overlay that reads 'Support the Memorial'.
A badge indicating IRS approval for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, retroactive to October 22, 2025, for the Hellships Memorial Foundation, with U.S. donations being tax-deductible.

501(c)(3) Approved

U.S. Donations are Tax-Deductible

WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS

During World War II, thousands of prisoners of war were transported across the Pacific under brutal conditions aboard vessels now known as the Hellships.

Many never reached their destination. Thousands perished—often without record, recognition, or a place of remembrance.

Today, their stories are still being uncovered.

With our official 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, U.S. donors can now make contributions that are fully tax-deductible in accordance with IRS regulations. Your donation fuels ongoing research, historical documentation, memorial preservation, and educational outreach—bringing truth, recognition, and dignity to those who were lost. By giving today, you are not only honoring the past, but helping build a lasting legacy for future generations.

WHAT YOUR DONATION SUPPORTS

Your support directly contributes to:

  • Historical research and documentation

  • Digital archives and public access databases

  • Memorial development and preservation

  • Educational programs and outreach

  • Continued investigation into Hellship histories

You may support the Hellships Memorial Foundation by transferring your donation directly to the Foundation’s business account using the banking information provided below.

Bank Transfer Information

Bank transfers are a secure and efficient way to support the preservation of the Hellships Memorial and our ongoing historical research and educational programs.

• Name as titled on account: Hellships Memorial Foundation, Inc

• Account number to which the funds should be credited: 7219764599 (Business Checking)

•  Routing/ABA Number: 256074974

• Navy Federal's address: 820 Follin Lane SE, Vienna, VA 22180

•  SWIFT/BIC: NFCUUS33XXX

Donations by Check

Checks may be made payable to Hellships Memorial Foundation and mailed to:

Hellships Memorial Foundation
1621 Central Avenue #57487
Cheyenne, WY 82001
USA

Donate online securely through our encrypted payment platform using a credit card or other supported payment methods. Your contribution directly supports the preservation of the Hellships Memorial and the Foundation’s ongoing historical research, education, and remembrance programs.

3% Cover the Fee

A LASTING IMPACT

Your contribution is more than a donation—it is an act of remembrance.

It helps ensure that those who suffered and perished aboard the Hellships are not forgotten.

It supports the creation of places where families, communities, and future generations can reflect and remember.

After decades of silence, the stories of the Hellships are being told.

With your support, they will be remembered.

 FAQs

  • Your gift supports memorial upkeep, historical research, underwater documentation, public education, and outreach to families of those lost on Hellships.

  • The Hellships Memorial Foundation is a U.S.-registered nonprofit. Donations may be tax-deductible depending on your jurisdiction. Please consult your tax advisor.

  • Absolutely. You may donate in honor of a loved one or request recognition linked to a specific Hellship.

  • You can volunteer, help share stories, connect us to descendants, sponsor programs, or partner with our educational and museum initiatives.