NYC Teens on Probation to Help with Sandy Relief

Mayor Bloomberg announced a new phase of a program today that provides New York City teens on probation with summer jobs. The so-called NYC Summer Youth WRAP (Weekend Restoration Assistance Program) connects young probation clients to Superstorm Sandy restoration projects around the city.

The program aims to assist areas still recovering from last year’s storm while getting young people positively involved in their communities.

Over 400 probation clients between the ages of 14 and 18 will participate. They will be able to earn up to $1,400 in stipends over the course of the seven week program.

The summer program is an extension of NYC Youth WRAP that began in January.  The mayor said the program has been successful, with a majority of participants returning to work for the summer. He said it’s important to provide these young people with opportunities for success.

“Young kids sometimes make mistakes,” he said at Monday morning’s announcement, “and if we just don't pay any attention and don't try to help them get back on the straight and narrow they’re going to suffer.”

One participant is Aquarius Petteway who has been working with NYC Youth Wrap since January. He said he was surprised by how much he enjoyed working with the program.

“I liked doing something positive for people and neighborhoods that were impacted by the storm,” he said. “I've seen first-hand how much some people suffered and it feels good helping them out.”

Program participants will work to repair homes, restore parks, and provide meals in some of the city’s storm-ravaged areas.  The program is funded by the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City.