RICHLAND, WASH. (June 20, 2022) ‒ Gesa, a community-focused credit union, is proud to announce its 2022 Local Heroes Grant Program will be accepting grant applications starting today, June 20, through July 31, 2022. Gesa encourages any local organization that supports local heroes in Washington, including firefighters, healthcare workers, law enforcement, teachers and veterans, to apply for grants up to $50,000 to support their efforts. In its second year, the Local Heroes Grant Program will offer more than $250,000 in grants.

“From our members to our leadership, we at Gesa share an unparalleled commitment to serving the dedicated heroes our communities rely on,” said Richard Waddle Executive Vice President of Gesa Credit Union. “These local heroes are on the ground every day making our communities better and safer, and Gesa is eager to support their crucial work through our grant program.”  

Funds for the grants are generated through Gesa’s Affinity Debit Card Program. With every swipe of a Local Heroes co-branded Gesa Visa® Debit Card, Gesa members earn funds designated for grants in that card’s Local Heroes category. Funds accumulate over the course of a year and are distributed annually.

Grant applicants must provide proof that the funds will directly benefit at least one of the specified Local Heroes groups in a Gesa community, which is defined as a community where Gesa has a physical location. The grant application period closes July 31, 2022. For more information on grant eligibility and to apply, visit https://www.gesa.com/community/local-heroes. 

Gesa Credit Union is Washington’s second largest credit union with over $5.0 billion in assets and is over 275,000 members strong. Gesa is a full-service financial institution that offers a complete array of consumer, mortgage, and business products and services. Headquartered in Richland, Washington, Gesa operates 28 branches across Washington and supports 12 student-operated high school branches. Gesa’s commitment to local communities includes support for Junior Achievement, the American Red Cross, annual youth scholarships, and free financial and educational resources available to members and the general public. For more information visit gesa.com.