Кооператив Gesa выделил более 372 тысяч долларов 25 школьным округам Вашингтона

The Brief - Gesa Credit Union is distributing more than $372,000 to 25 school districts across Central and Southeastern Washington through its Affinity Debit Card program. - Schools can use the funds for academic programs, technology, professional development, athletics and extracurricular activities based on their greatest needs. - The statewide giveback program has generated more than $2.78 million for local schools since 2015, with this year's distribution exceeding $500,000 to 35 districts across the state. Pasco, Washington — Local school districts are receiving a significant financial boost that could help preserve critical student programs as budget constraints continue to squeeze educational resources across the region. Gesa Credit Union announced it is awarding more than $372,000 to 25 school districts across Central and Southeastern Washington through its Affinity Debit Card program. The funds give schools flexibility to address their most pressing needs, whether that involves upgrading technology, supporting professional development for teachers, or purchasing equipment and uniforms for school bands and other activities. The financial support arrives as districts grapple with budget deficits that are threatening programs designed to develop students. Brandon Allison, Gesa's vice president of community impact, explained the credit union's role in addressing these challenges. "What we're hearing from schools is that budget deficits are impacting programs that develop students, and these funds are helping support those programs because the funds that are directed to these schools are designed to directly support students," Allison said. The Affinity Debit Card program generates revenue for schools without placing additional financial burden on families. When participating Gesa members use their affinity debit cards, a portion of the transaction fees is directed back to schools. This approach allows districts to maintain and expand student-focused initiatives without requesting additional contributions from parents or guardians. The range of programs supported by these funds reflects the diverse needs across school districts. Academic programs, technology infrastructure, professional development opportunities, athletics and extracurricular activities all benefit from the distribution. Schools determine how to allocate the money based on their individual circumstances and priorities. Districts receiving funds include: College Place School District, Columbia Basin College Foundation, Columbia School District, Delta High School, Eastmont School District, Ephrata School District, Finley School District, Heritage University, Kennewick School District, Kiona-Benton City School District, Liberty Christian School, Moses Lake School District, Naches Valley School District, Pasco School District, Prosser School District, Pullman Public Schools, Richland School District, Selah School District, St. Patrick Catholic School, Tri-Tech Skills Center, Tri-Cities Prep Catholic High School, Walla Walla Public Schools, Wenatchee School District, West Valley School District and Yakima School District. This year's statewide giveback represents the program's largest distribution to date. Gesa is providing more than $500,000 to 35 school districts across Washington state. The credit union's long-term commitment to education is evident in the program's track record: since 2015, the Affinity Debit Card initiative has generated more than $2.78 million for local schools. Gesa positions the program as a resource to help schools fill budget gaps and sustain student programs during a period of financial uncertainty. As districts continue navigating tight budgets, partnerships with community organizations like Gesa provide an alternative funding stream that supports educational quality without requiring families to shoulder additional costs. COPYRIGHT 2026 BY APPLE VALLEY NEWS NOW. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.