BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $42 million for the Youth Employment Program Wednesday, connecting youth to jobs and supporting New York’s efforts to reduce gun violence.
The funding includes $2.2 million for the Southern Tier region.
Program part of gun violence initiative
The funding will provide job opportunities and training to at-risk youth in communities across the state. The program is part of New York state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination initiative, or GIVE, which operates in 21 counties outside New York City.
“I was super excited because I know the difference it makes,” said Christopher Sponn, executive director of Tompkins County Workforce Development.
Southern Tier counties to receive funding
The Southern Tier’s $2.2 million includes close to $1.4 million for Broome County, almost $500,000 for Chemung County and $360,000 for Tompkins County.
“I think it’s great that the state is investing in the Southern Tier in this program, because we want youth to stay in the Southern Tier,” Sponn said. “We don’t want them to leave; this program gives them that opportunity to stay here, get that job experience.”
The funding supports local efforts to provide year-round job opportunities and training for more than 2,500 low-income and at-risk youth across the state.
Funds allocated by risk level
Sponn said the funds are allocated based on different workforce development board areas and the level of risk of gun violence in those areas.
“They need positive pathways and options to move up in life. And this program offers that. So, I’m very happy to hear that the community is investing in this,” Sponn said. “I would just encourage any youth to reach out to their local career centers to learn more about the program.”
The program provides financial literacy workshops, local credit union workshops and mental health services for ages 14 to 20. It started this September and ends in June 2027.
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