Press Release
Statement by CSS President and CEO David R. Jones on Adams Administration Providing Free MetroCards to SYEP Participants
We know from research that NYC summer jobs improve academic and other life outcomes for participants. It is one of the most important investments we can make in the professional development of our youth.
Last year, the Adams Administration created a record 100,000 summer job opportunities for young people ages 14 to 24. The historic investment in the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) was a strong statement by the mayor that securing the future of our young people starts with giving them valuable experience in the labor market.
As the program rolls out this summer, the Adams administration is providing free MetroCards to SYEP participants. For many low-income households in our city, the income young people bring home from their summer jobs helps support their families. And not having to pay for transit expenses means more money in the pockets of our young people.
Summer work offers room for our young people to explore careers and develop interests, connections, and a sense of a pathway for what might come after high school. Anytime we can improve the program and make it more viable for participants is a good thing for the city.
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