SRP Federal Credit Union representatives join Barnwell County School District board members and Superintendent Dr. Stapleton behind a ceremonial check for $71,095.30.

SRP Donates Over $70,000 to Barnwell County School District High Schools Through Affinity Debit Card Program

posted on

April 24, 2026

Barnwell, SC – Four schools in the Barnwell County School District received a combined total of over $70,000 from SRP Federal Credit Union’s 2025 Affinity Debit Card Program proceeds, reflecting a year of commitment to supporting local schools from families, faculty and staff, and community members.

SRP Federal Credit Union officials joined Barnwell County School District Board of Trustees members and Superintendent Dr. Crissie Stapleton in a check presentation ceremony on March 25. The school district received $71,095.30 in unrestricted funds for participating schools.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are deeply grateful for SRP’s continued investment in our students and schools,” said Becky Huggins, Board Chair for the Barnwell County School District. “Partnerships like this strengthen not only our classrooms, but our entire community.”

Launched in 2018, the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program strengthens local high schools, as well as Augusta Technical College, with funding. Every time an SRP member makes a purchase using an Affinity Debit Card, SRP Federal Credit Union donates funds to the school designated on the card.

Participating schools have full discretion over how they use the Affinity donations, allowing them to allocate funds wherever they are needed most. These donations have supported a wide range of needs, including teacher certifications, school equipment, computer upgrades, team uniforms, and more.

“At SRP Federal Credit Union, we believe in strengthening our communities through the power of education,” said Lonzo Smith, SRP Federal Credit Union Community Impact Manager. “What makes the SRP Affinity Debit Card Program special is the way it connects schools, families, and community members toward a common goal: uplifting students in our area. We are proud to support schools across our 10-county service area with Affinity funds.”

In the Barnwell County School District, SRP Federal Credit Union offers Affinity Debit Cards that benefit the Barnwell County Career Center, Barnwell High School, Blackville-Hilda High School, and Williston-Elko High School.

"We are deeply grateful for our continued partnership with SRP Federal Credit Union and the impact of the Affinity Debit Card Program,” said Dr. Stapleton. “This initiative reflects a shared commitment to our students, turning everyday transactions into meaningful investments that support programs, provide resources, and create opportunities across Barnwell County School District. The impact of SRP’s Affinity Debit Card Program not only provides critical support for student programs and resources, but also demonstrates the power of a community coming together to invest in the success of our children."

About SRP

SRP Federal Credit Union is headquartered in North Augusta, South Carolina, and provides a full range of financial services to more than 200,000 members. SRP serves the banking needs of individuals, families, and businesses across 10 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Recognized for its commitment to member service and community impact, SRP was recently named Best-In-State Credit Union in Georgia by Forbes and one of America’s Best Credit Unions in South Carolina by Newsweek. For more information, visit www.srpfcu.org.

A high school student in a classroom with a notebook and a pencil

Personal finance concepts all high school students should know

posted on

August 15, 2025

For good reason, many high school students are focused on an academically rigorous course load. Unfortunately, personal finance – a topic they need to understand to survive in life – is rarely taught in school in a comprehensive way.

As a parent, the duty often falls on you. Not sure where to start? Here are some topics that will help start your discussions about financial fitness.

Buying that first car

If your high school student is ready for their first car, point them to makes and models known to be reliable, safe, and cost-effective. If a car loan can’t be avoided, then turn it into a discussion on borrowing and debt. Even if you’re covering the costs, explain the concept of monthly payments, default, etc.

Responsible credit management

As students turn 18 and head to college or the working world, they’ll likely start getting credit card offers. Few young people, however, have the discipline to pay off credit card bills on time, every time. Before they arrive on campus or at their first post-high school job, make sure you introduce them to credit card best practices, like keeping balances low and having a plan in place to pay the balance in full each month.

Saving for college expenses

Many of today’s high school students have part-time jobs. If money is tight for college in your family and you have a child expecting to further their schooling, explain that they may have to put some of their income away for higher education. Even if tuition is covered, there are still additional costs such as textbooks, meal plans, parking, and more.

Basic investing

It’s never too early to learn about the stock market and other investments. Explain the nuts and bolts of investing and have them start tracking companies of personal interest to them. Raise the stakes by making hypothetical or even real (if you’re comfortable with it) investments. They might not become financial advisors when they get older, but understanding money on a more advanced level can strengthen their fundamental skills now.

By sharing financial basics with your kids and framing them in terms that are relevant to them, you can set them up for a positive financial future.

This article is for informational purposes only. Membership required. SRP is federally insured by NCUA.

Article Credit: BALANCE

Tag: high school