LITERASI KEUANGAN DAN PENTINGNYA MENABUNG BAGI ANAK SEKOLAH MINGGU TUNAS PEKABARAN INJIL (SMTPI) DI DESA WAIPIRIT KABUPATEN SERAM BAGIAN BARAT

Abstrak

Financial literacy is a fundamental skill that is essential to instill from an early age to foster healthy and responsible financial behavior. However, children's understanding of money management and saving habits remains low, particularly in the Tunas Pekabaran Injil (SMTPI) Sunday School in Waipirit Village, West Seram Regency. This community service activity aims to improve children's understanding of basic financial concepts, distinguish between needs and wants, and foster early savings habits based on Christian values. The implementation method uses an educational-participatory approach through interactive counseling, educational games, savings simulations, creative piggy bank creation, and reflection on faith values. The activity was carried out on October 25–26, 2025, involving SMTPI children, Sunday school teachers, and church leaders. The results of the activity showed an increase in participants' understanding of the function of money, the importance of managing pocket money, and the benefits of saving. The children showed high enthusiasm during the activity and began to commit to setting aside part of their pocket money for savings. This program also resulted in the formation of the "SMTPI Savings Friends" group as a strategy for program sustainability. This activity has proven effective in instilling the values ​​of discipline, responsibility, and a culture of saving from an early age