NEW YORK -- Upromise, the loyalty program that helps families save for college, is expanding its service to include fundraising for elementary, middle and high schools.

The Needham, Mass., company was to announce on Tuesday that it will launch the Upromise Schools Program. The first participant will be the Houston Independent School District, which operates the public schools in the city of Houston.

"Our mission at Upromise is trying to help individuals and families realize the dream of higher education," Tom Anderson, chief executive officer of Upromise, told the AP.

"Ability to pay is important, but so is being prepared for college," Anderson said. "The idea behind the schools program is that you can help your child's education today - and in the future."

Story Continues