MINNEAPOLIS --(Business Wire)-- Jul 06, 2009 U.S. Bank is launching a new savings contest aimed at making a lasting impression on its youngest customers. “What are you saving for,” is the question, and the answer children provide could result in an extra $100 from U.S. Bank toward their savings goals.

“It is so important that children learn the value of saving at a young age,” said Rick Hartnack, vice chairman of consumer banking at U.S. Bancorp, parent company of U.S. Bank. “U.S. Bank can help them realize that it takes discipline and planning to reach their savings goals and the great feeling of accomplishment when they do. We hope to teach them how rewarding it can be to reach their financial goals, and that they’ll carry that knowledge into their adult lives.”

Children ages five to twelve years old are eligible to participate. Entry forms are available at any U.S. Bank branch. The child is asked to illustrate what they are saving for and what they’re planning to do to earn money (extra chores, lemonade stand, saving birthday money, etc.). Forms returned to the branch will be reviewed by U.S. Bank employees and 25 winners will be selected to receive $100 to help them on their way. The first name, hometown, age and savings goal of each winner will be posted on www.usbank.com/whatareyousavingfor. U.S. Bank will also track the top 10 things that these young savers are saving for each month.

U.S. Bank has a long history of encouraging saving at all ages. In addition to its savings programs, hundreds of U.S. Bank volunteers visit local classrooms to teach kids about the importance of saving, and how they can make saving part of their everyday lives.