Toronto is taking a major step toward addressing youth unemployment with the creation of the Toronto Youth Employment Program, which aims to provide 10,000 additional summer jobs for young people by 2026. The initiative was discussed on February 26, 2025, at the Economic and Community Development Committee meeting at City Hall.

Fred Alvarado – Local Journalism Initiative

The motion, proposed by Councillor Alejandra Bravo (Davenport), was passed unanimously. Youth unemployment in Toronto currently stands at 20%, a crisis that has been linked to rising crime rates, including firearm-related arrests and violent carjackings. The motion was championed by the Toronto Youth Cabinet, which has engaged over 30,000 young people to understand their need for stable, meaningful work.

The program will partner with community organizations, the private sector, and government agencies to offer young people job opportunities, mentorship, and skills training. City leaders hope this initiative will not only reduce violence but also break cycles of poverty by providing career-building experiences.

In Regent Park, where youth unemployment is disproportionately high, the impact of this initiative could be transformative. By creating accessible job opportunities, the program will offer young people a sense of direction, financial stability, and a chance to contribute positively to their community.