Teach Children to Save: Guaranty Bank Brings Financial Literacy to 550 Students in April 2026
BELZONI, MS – Hue Townsend, CEO of Guaranty Bank, is proud to announce the bank’s participation in the American Bankers Association Foundation’s Teach Children to Save program throughout April 2026, reaching nearly 550 students promoting financial literacy across our community.
As part of Guaranty Bank’s continued commitment to financial literacy and community investment, representatives from more than 80% of branches across our bank-wide footprint participated in the initiative by visiting local classrooms and leading financial education discussions.
What Is the Teach Children to Save Program?
The Teach Children to Save program is a national initiative held in April where bankers, educators, and volunteers teach children K–8 about saving, budgeting, and making good financial decisions.
Throughout the month, Guaranty Bank team members introduced students to foundational money management concepts through interactive conversations and real-life examples, including:
Key Money Lessons Taught to Students
- Spend, Save, Share: Decide in advance how much of allowance or earnings goes to each category.
- Open a savings account: Let kids monitor growth and see the value of money.
- Teach needs vs. wants: Show how saving covers essentials while preparing for wants.
- Use real purchases: Have kids pay with their own money to understand cost.
- Create a savings goal: Give it a name and picture so it feels personal.
Why Early Financial Education Matters
For many students, these lessons provide exposure to financial concepts they may not otherwise encounter in a traditional classroom setting. Guaranty Bank views financial education as a critical part of strengthening the long-term success of the communities it serves.
Branch Manager of our Ridgeland office, Cindy Deerman, shared “teaching kids to save is one of the best money habits we can share. Whether a first grader is dreaming big—like pretending to save for a Range Rover—or just hoping to buy a fun new toy, saving early helps them learn how to set goals, make good choices, and practice patience.”
Building Stronger Communities Through Financial Literacy
These small lessons help kids feel confident. Over time, they turn into important life skills—planning ahead, avoiding impulse buys, and feeling in control of their money. When we help kids build these habits now, we’re giving them a strong start and helping them grow into smart, thoughtful money‑makers in the future.
By cultivating a community that values financial literacy, we give our children the tools, support, and inspiration they need to build a secure future. Together, we’re not just teaching them to save money, we’re teaching them to save for their dreams.
About Teach Children To Save:
ABA Foundation, a (501C)3, provides free programs and resources to help banks support the financial well-being of their customers and communities. ABA Foundation’s mission is to inspire, equip and empower banks of all sizes to build thriving, resilient and equitable communities. Learn more at: https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/teach-children-save
About Guaranty Bank:
Guaranty Bank’s mission is to set the standard in our communities for excellence in financial service products and their delivery, to strengthen the communities we serve, and to help improve the quality of life in those areas; while creating lasting value for our shareholders, employees, and customers. Learn more at Personal & Business Banking Services | Guaranty Bank