New York state announced $30 million in
funding for the Summer Youth Employment
program which supports communities across
the state in creating summer jobs for youth
from low-income families. With this funding,
approximately 18,000 young New Yorkers
will gain new skills this summer, resulting
in improved academic performance and
increasing future job prospects.
Of that sum, Saratoga County will receive
$179,357, Washington County $76,057, and
Warren County $82,916 .
“Landing that first summer job has a positive
effect on young people that spans well
into adulthood,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said.
“By funding these positions we are giving
businesses the summer help they need, as
well as creating the opportunity for youth
to both earn a paycheck and learn valuable
skills that will last a lifetime. I encourage
those interested to contact their local social
services office and find out what opportunities
are available.”
To be eligible, young people must be ages
14 to 20 and have a family income below
200 percent of the federal poverty level (or
$39,850 for a family of three). Employers can
use the funds to subsidize wages, support
education and training activities, as well as
offer counseling and employment-related
services, such as transportation to and from
work. Young people interested in participating
can contact their local department of
social services.
Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
Executive Deputy Commissioner Sharon
Devine said, “As someone who obtained
her first summer job through this program
as a teenager, much of what I took away
from that experience has stayed with me
throughout my career. The program helped
me gain knowledge and confidence to pursue
my career path, as it is certain to help young
New Yorkers this summer.”
Cindy Kaptan, a program participant who
lives in Delaware County, said, “I worked with
the Village of Sidney for two years through
the Summer Youth Employment Program
and now work as a full-time employee for
them. Working for the village has introduced
me to a new professional path, taught me
new skills, and overall helped me grow as
a person.”
Kathy Watson, human resources director
for Timeless Frames & Décor in Watertown,
which has employed young people through
the program the past four summers, said,
“Youth have an opportunity to experience
working in a manufacturing environment
and, if successful, will be considered for
future, full-time employment. It gives us an
opportunity to provide work experience to
youths in the area and potentially strengthen
our pool of candidates for future openings.”