Gesa Credit Union opens applications for 2025 Local Heroes grant program

RICHLAND — Gesa Credit Union announced Monday, June 16,  it is now accepting applications for its 2025 Local Heroes Grant Program, with more than $500,000 available to support organizations that serve firefighters, healthcare workers, law enforcement, educators, and veterans.

The program, now in its fifth year, will award individual grants of up to $50,000. Applications will be accepted through July 31.

“We know there are many incredible organizations out there making meaningful differences in their communities, and we want to help support them,” said Amber Merrill, Community Relations Manager at Gesa Credit Union. “The Local Heroes Grant Program is one way we recognize and invest in those who dedicate their lives to serving others. We encourage all eligible groups to apply and share the great work they are doing to strengthen our communities.”

Funds for the grants come from Gesa’s Affinity Debit Card Program. Each time a member uses a Local Heroes co-branded Affinity Debit Card, funds are generated for that card’s category and later distributed through the Gesa Community Foundation.

Since launching in 2021, the Local Heroes Grant Program has awarded more than $1.7 million to over 120 organizations throughout the Pacific Northwest.

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that their grant proposal will directly benefit one of the designated Local Heroes groups in a community where Gesa has a physical branch. Gesa currently operates 45 branches across Washington state.

Additional information about eligibility and the application process is available at www.gesa.com/community/local-heroes.