Question: What is the cost of increasing the Summer Youth Employment Program so that it could serve 50% more youth? 100%?How many more young persons would benefit from such a change? (Councilwoman Gaskins)
Response:
Currently, the Summer Youth Employment Program serves 170 young persons, 14 to 18 years old, for six weeks. Participants are matched with employers to work up to 30 hours per week. Below are the costs for expanding the program. These reflect the Virginia 2020 General Assembly HB 395, which incrementally increases the minimum wage over five years. The Summer Youth Employment program overlaps two fiscal years; therefore, during FY24, the minimum wage will rise to $13.50, $1.50 more than the current rate. Additionally, there is a need to increase seasonal staff to keep the staff-to-youth ratio manageable to adequately support participants and placement supervisors. Other operational costs include an increase in office supplies, transportation, and a closing ceremony with awards to accommodate 50% or 100% more youth participants.