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NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – A state grant under the New York Youth Works program will allow New Rochelle to start training young people to enter the work force.
The $274,000 grant will train workers 16 to 24 years old who don’t have jobs or the resources to get job training. Sixty-five youths will be chosen for eight weeks of training at the New Rochelle Public Library.
The Youth Bureau is asking for help from the city council to find businesses to participate in the program. The city does not know how many businesses will be taking part.
New Rochelle Youth Bureau Executive Director Kelly Johnson said the grant can only work with help from businesses and government.
“It’s a really challenging grant and we’re excited about meeting that challenge,” said Johnson.
The Youth Bureau and the New Rochelle Municipal Housing Authority each got $137,000 in grant money. Each participating business also receives $4,000 in tax credits.District 3 Councilman Jared Rice said the program will help keep young adults productive and keep the city safe.
“That’s a lot of revenue coming into New Rochelle that will be able to assist us with a lot of things going on,” he said.
The City Council gave the youth bureau the OK to start the program Wednesday.
Barbara Davis, New Rochelle Public Library community relations coordinator, said the library has become a job resource for the city over the last two years.
“We’re already in full swing,” she said.
Comments (2)
Are these funds going to be used as compensation for these young people? All of it? Or will 1/2 or more go to the City to cover Admnistrative expenses or re-allocated to pay for something not currently envisioned by this grant?
What kinds of businesses are they looking for & what kind of training will the youth be receiving?