Dustin Pedroia in Peabody on Saturday

Red Sox All-Star Dustin Pedroia was at the Northshore Mall on Saturday greeting fans at .

Salem Five Bank and Pedroia have paired up to promote their Gold Star Saver Program for kids. It's a savings account that also combines with a computer software program that's designed specifically for kids ages 7-12.

According to Martha Acworth, CMO for Salem Five, this financial literacy program will help kids learn how to save, how to use a credit card wisely and explain everyday financial terms, such as taxes and what they are used for.

The program started in 2009 and so far, more than 2,000 kids have opened a Gold Star Account. Upon opening, Salem Five matches your deposit with $10 in "Pedroia Bucks."

Kids can then log onto the computer program and answer kid-friendly financial questions. When they have completed each module, Pedroia pops up on the screen and offers money saving tips in a light and friendly way.

At the Salem Five Branch at the Northshore Mall on Saturday, fans got there extra early to get in line to take a picture with the Red Sox player. Some got there as early as 8 a.m.

The second baseman arrived via limo and the fans cheered his arrival. With the hot temps and blazing sun, Salem Five provided misting fans, tents and umbrellas and an unlimited supply of bottled water.

There were balloons, goodies and a buffet table with freshly steamed hot dogs and an old fashioned popcorn machine. And it was all free to the public as well as account holders.

Garrett Baker, of Salem, and his two kids, Griffin (10) and Haley (7), were the first Gold Star Account holders in line. Both kids opened their account a year ago.

Three Peabody baseball players were eager to meet Pedroia, suited up in their baseball uniforms. Ben Cohen, Billy Ryan and Patrick Conway all play for the Dana Farber All-Star Team and took their picture together with Pedroia.

The Townley Family got in their car at 7:15 a.m. Saturday morning and drove all the way from Ravena, NY, which is just south of Albany. Larissa Townley is a huge Pedroia fan and her dad surprised her that morning with a vacation to Massachusetts. She had no idea she was going to meet her favorite baseball player.

Pedroia was  gracious and all smiles as he greeted each fan.

Visit www.salemfive.com for more information on the Gold Star Saver Account that features spokesperson Dustin Pedroia of the Boston Red Sox.