Gesa Credit Union has recently announced the launch of new W.F. West and Centralia High School Affinity Debit Cards, now available to Gesa members in Southwest Washington.
The Affinity Debit Card Program is one of Gesa’s signature community investments and is unique in that each time a member uses a co-branded card, a portion of the transaction fees is directed to the partnering school at no additional cost to the cardholder or the school, according to a news release from the company.
Since 2015, Gesa’s affinity debit cards have delivered more than $1.8 million to school districts across Washington, with partner schools using the funds to support academic programs, athletics and extracurricular activities.
The cards are free to current Gesa members with a checking account, and anyone in the community who lives or works in Washington can join Gesa to participate.
“Southwest Washington is a meaningful part of Gesa’s story,” Bill Williams, vice president of branches at Gesa Credit Union, said in a news release. “These new cards give Chehalis and Centralia community members a simple, cost-free way to invest in their local schools every time they spend. That’s what being a trusted lifelong financial partner looks like.”
Gesa announced the new cards at a community open house held on Thursday, June 18. As part of the event, Gesa presented $10,000 to the Chehalis School District and $10,000 to the Centralia School District, while also announcing a new scholarship initiative that will help create additional opportunities for local students.
Now through Sept. 18, Gesa will contribute $50 to a dedicated scholarship fund for every new W.F. West or Centralia High School affinity debit card issued, up to $5,000 per school. The cards also provide an ongoing source of annual funding for the schools, directing a portion of transaction fees back to the districts each time members use them, at no additional cost to cardholders, according to the release.
“We believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities,” said Brandon Allison, Gesa vice president of community impact. “Launching these cards alongside the community open house is a commitment to Chehalis and Centralia students and the people who root for them every day. When our members swipe their cards, they’re funding opportunities for local students.”
“We are grateful for Gesa Credit Union’s partnership and continued investment in our students, schools, and community,” said Don Bunker, W.F. West High School career and technical education director. “Preparing students for the journey ahead means helping every student discover their strengths, pursue meaningful opportunities, and build a successful future beyond high school. Through our shared commitment and the support of the GESA Affinity Debit Card program, we are able to strengthen opportunities for students while advancing our ‘75 by 35’ goal of ensuring more graduates earn postsecondary credentials by the Class of 2035. We truly appreciate Gesa’s belief in our students and their commitment to supporting the future of our community.”
“The Centralia School District is thrilled to partner with Gesa Credit Union on the Affinity Card program that gives families, alumni, staff and community members a free and meaningful way to show their Tiger pride while directly supporting students and student programs,” Superintendent Lisa Grant said in the release. “Each card purchases invests in our students and enriches their learning experience. We are grateful to Gesa Credit Union for their partnership and support of our students and our schools.”
The W.F. West and Centralia High School Affinity Debit Cards are available now. Members can choose their card at any Gesa branch, online at www.gesa.com, or by calling 888-946-4372.
To learn more about Gesa Credit Union and its products, services or community programs, visit www.gesa.com.
