Despite the financial crunch facing many Jamaicans, hundreds of persons, across all social classes, made the sacrifice to save consistently, by participating in the JN Money Shop 'Super Savings Fiesta' promotion 2013.

Saniah Spencer, operations manager, community banking, at Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), said the six-month saving campaign, January to June, was promoted in all 13 JN Money Shops across the island, had an overwhelming response from members.

"We received more than 1,000 entries for the promotion, which required customers to open a savings account with J$5,000 or more. Throughout the period, persons were able to win instant prizes from JNBS Bill Payment Vouchers to Sangster's Book Vouchers and movie tickets," she explained.

For the grand draw, members were required to have a minimum balance of $25,000 in their JNBS savings account, which made them eligible to win the first prize of a Samsung Galaxy SIII phone, second prize of a 32" HD TV and third prize of an HP Netbook computer.

save on a regular basis

"The initiative aimed to encourage our members to save on a regular basis," Ms Spencer pointed out.

"We note that less priority was being placed on saving, as many saw their disposal income being reduced, and, therefore, we wanted to emphasise that no matter how small, members should put aside something for a rainy day."

Christine Binns, the first-prize winner in the competition, said she was surprised when she was called and told she had won the top prize.

"When I got the call at my workplace, I was screaming inside because I was excited," Ms Binns stated.

"I wanted to own a Galaxy phone from the time they first came out. So this win is a great opportunity for me," she related.

An auditor at the Auditor General' Department, Binns said whereas she always try to put aside some savings, the promotion was an added incentive. "I know that the economy, in itself, is very tough, but, if you make the sacrifice, it will be worth it at the end of the day. Most of all, your long-term goals will be met if you are consistent," she advised.

The other winners in the promotion were Doris Williams and Norman Lattibeaudiere from Annotto Bay in St Mary. They won a 32" HD TV and HP Netbook Computer, respectively. Miss Spencer pointed out that JN Money Shop will continue its in-store promotion to encourage persons to save.