# New York State Funds Youth Employment Program

New York State has allocated **$42 million** from September 2026 through June 2027 to support the Youth Employment Program, targeting over 2,500 low-income and at-risk youth in regions heavily impacted by gun violence. This funding aims to provide year-round paid employment and training opportunities as part of the state's Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative. The program is a coordinated effort involving multiple state agencies including the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Department of Labor, Division of Criminal Justice Services, and Office of Children and Family Services.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the significant state investment in workforce development programs linked to public safety objectives, creating opportunities for service providers specializing in youth employment, training, and social services.
- The program's focus on regions such as the Capital Region, Central New York, and Finger Lakes indicates geographic priorities for contract awards and service delivery.
- Agencies involved may seek vendors capable of delivering comprehensive employment and training solutions tailored to at-risk youth populations.
- Organizations interested in partnering or bidding should engage with the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and Department of Labor for upcoming solicitations and program implementation details.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Professional Services
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 23, 2026

### Government Entities
- New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)
- New York State Department of Labor
- New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS)
- New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS)
- New York State Government

### Key Quotes
> The Youth Employment Program is a core part of my administrations comprehensive approach to reduce gun violence in communities across New York State, while providing at-risk youth with year-round work and training opportunities that will help them build strong futures.
> — Kathy Hochul, Governor

### Sources
- [Governor Hochul Announces $42 Million for the Youth Employment Program, Connecting Young People to Good Jobs and Helping New York Continue Efforts to Reduce Gun Violence | Governor Kathy Hochul | New York State](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-42-million-youth-employment-program-connecting-young-people-good) - NY