SYRACUSE, NY (NCC News)- A new Syracuse youth employment program is helping local teens gain work experience during the summer.
The partnership between CNY Works and the city has placed youth in jobs at local businesses. This has been a sigh of relief for new Syracuse restaurant owner Dawn Reed.
With the help of the program, Reed has been able to employ teens even amidst the current labor shortage.
“The shortage is due to, you know, the pandemic,” Reed said. “Not only that, but unemployment. People don’t want to work.”
Reed, the owner of “Winnie’s Soul Delicious Restaurant” on Marshall Street, recently opened her business during the pandemic.
She has struggled with employment since her grand opening, and the nationwide shortage has not made things easier. Fortunately, CNY Works has been able to lend a helping hand.
“I have a few employees from there that work with me, so yeah they’ve been reaching out to me, yes,” Reed remarked.
Yet, temporary teen workers won’t be enough for Reed, as she is willing to hire several full time employees – but only if they are truly willing to work.
“If you want to come in for employment, come on in!,” Reed exclaimed. “Talk to me, sit down with me, let me interview you.”
However, Reed warns potential employees about any funny business. “If you about that mess? Stay away.”
Despite the arrival of new employees, Reed will continue to leave her “Help Wanted” sign in the window as the labor shortage progresses.
