MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Mississippi Saves launched its first America Saves Week campaign Monday to promote financial responsibility throughout the nation.

As part of the national America Saves effort, Mississippians can save money for a rainy day by taking the pledge to become a Mississippi Saver.

Bobbie Shaffett, a family resource management specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said an American Saves study found 63 percent of Americans were making only “fair” or “no” progress in meeting personal savings needs.

“To help improve these numbers, Mississippi Saves suggests aiming for short-term savings goals rather than long-term savings goals,” she said. “Even saving as little as $20 per week will help keep a short-term goal in sight.”

America Saves recommends keeping at least $500 in savings for emergencies. They suggest simple strategies for meeting this goal. For example, making credit card payments on time can save the consumer $30-35 in late fees each month.

In partnership with America Saves, Mississippi Saves offers social media resources to provide reminders and accountability partners to help members stick to their savings goals. Members can receive a quarterly newsletter and periodic financial information.

Mississippi Saves partners include the Mississippi State University Extension Service, credit unions, banks, credit counselors, the City of Hattiesburg and the Office of the State Treasurer.

America Saves is a national effort managed by the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America, a group of more than 1,000 non-profit organizations, government and corporate groups seeking to raise awareness about the importance of saving.

For more information, visit http://www.mississippisaves.org/, http://www.americasaves.org/ or email mssaves@ext.msstate.edu.