RICHLAND, WASH. (August 20, 2026) ‒ Gesa, a leading credit union in the Pacific Northwest dedicated to strengthening the communities it serves, today awarded more than $105,000 to nine partner school districts across Western Washington through its Affinity Debit Card program. In total, more than $500,000 in funds are being awarded to 35 partner schools statewide, marking the program’s largest annual giveback yet.
The Western Washington school districts awarded funds are:
- Centralia College Foundation
- Centralia School District
- Chehalis School District
- Everett Community College Foundation
- Foundation for Edmonds School District
- Highline College Foundation
- Puyallup School District
- Renton School District
- Tacoma Public Schools
“Our members have a direct role in strengthening the schools that serve their families and communities,” said Brandon Allison, VP of Community Impact, Gesa Credit Union. “By choosing a school card, they turn everyday purchases, like groceries or gas, into funding for programs and resources that benefit students. This year’s milestone is a powerful example of what we can accomplish when we come together to support our local schools.”
This year’s funds, generated through the 2025-2026 school year, will support academic programs, technology needs, and extracurricular activities and athletics at partner schools. Every time a participating member uses their card, Gesa donates to that school – at no additional cost to members. Since 2015, Gesa has raised more than $2.78 million for local schools through the program.
Gesa offers more than 70 Affinity Card designs supporting K-12 schools, colleges and universities, Local Heroes and other community partners. The cards are available exclusively at Gesa Credit Union and are free to Gesa members with a checking account. There is no fee for members to switch their card to any of the school designs. For a full list of Gesa’s Affinity Cards, visit www.gesa.com/product/affinity-cards/.