EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) is thrilled to announce the expansion of Illinois Department of Human Services’ COVID-19 Summer Youth Employment Program, creating additional employment opportunities for underserved youth in the Metro East area.

“Early work experience is an important tool for improving future employment prospects and salary potential for low-income youth,” Belt said. “This program will play an important role in helping our youth learn new skills and find worthwhile careers.”

The program will employ young adults in the Metro East area in July and August 2020, helping them train for and find work despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House Organization is placing youth employees in age, ability and experience appropriate work-based learning opportunities, while offering career development. Jobs are available in St. Clair and Madison Counties.

The Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House Organization is one of 30 youth employment providers across the state and received $500,000 in grant funding to employ 100 area youth.