RICHLAND, Wash.–Gesa Credit Union has named the recipients of its 2023 Local Heroes Grant Program, which provides grant funds to organizations that support local heroes within the community.
This year Gesa awarded more than $410,000 in grants to 42 organizations across Washington state. The top awarded organizations received upwards of $50,000 to support their specific needs.
Gesa’s Local Heroes Grant Program provides grants to organizations in the state of Washington that support any of the Gesa’s outlined Local Heroes categories, including firefighters, law enforcement, educators, healthcare workers, and veterans. This year’s recipients were selected by the credit union’s Gesa Community Foundation selection committee.
“We view Local Heroes as those that step forward to make our communities better. We need these organizations, and the remarkable dedication demonstrated by this year’s applicants is inspiring,” said EVP Richard Waddle. “We are honored to provide grants to support these Local Heroes and deeply appreciate the invaluable work they do to strengthen our communities and shape a brighter future.”
Of the 42 organizations recognized through the Local Heroes Grant Program this year, 17 grants were awarded to educators. Another seven grants were given to organizations supporting healthcare workers. Firefighter and law enforcement departments and organizations were provided a total of 12 grants, six for each Local Heroes group. Another six grants were committed to supporting veteran organizations across the state.
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 disbursed annually by the Gesa Community Foundation.