Local credit union offers grants to help teachers cover classroom expenses 

Teachers often have to dip into their own wallets to make the studying experience better for their students.

To ease that burden, a grant program by TwinStar Credit Union is offering $200 to kindergarten through fifth grade (K-5) teachers in Thurston County and beyond. 

According to the credit union, its Classroom Cash Program has helped teachers in Washington and Oregon cover nearly $700,000 in classroom-related expenses since it was launched in 2000. The grant may be used for furniture, books, school supplies or other classroom needs. 

The program is open to permanent K–5 teachers, counselors and librarians, but not to substitute teachers, assistants, paraprofessionals, principals or administrative staff. Applicants must be at least 18, a U.S. citizen and a member in good standing with TwinStar Credit Union. 

Funds will be directed to the applicant’s school district rather than to the individual, so applicants must apply using their work email address and provide contact information for the person or department within the school district that handles grant funds. 

People interested or who know someone who may find the grant useful, may head to TwinStar’s website to apply. 

The credit union has allotted $80,000 for the current grant cycle, so funds are limited to the first 400 eligible applicants. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 30. 

The credit union will notify qualified applicants and their school districts by Nov. 15.