A collaborative effort to provide jobs for young people in Erie County will soon get underway.

The program took a big hit last year due to the pandemic.

But as we begin to see fewer restrictions, those involved with the 2021 Summer Jobs and More (Summer JAM) program are expecting more students and companies to participate.

The program helps young people land a summer job with local nonprofits and other businesses throughout the county.

Over the past 7 years, county government, ECGRA and the Erie Community Foundation have pumped $2.2 million into the program, providing jobs to more than 1,000 students.

Typically, nearly 160 students are employed.

But in 2020, with the global pandemic, only 90 students and 30 businesses participated.

However, this year, the program is expected to employ up 125 students at 50 different businesses.

As an incentive for students to apply, the county is offering a wage of $8.25 an hour, as opposed to minimum wage.

"These are entry level positions and they have the opportunity, these young men and women to work with different employers in a team environment, so they are going to come in and do some entry level working in the it area, our financial area, and with it grounds and maintenance," said Gary Lee. "But it presents an opportunity for young men and women to get the basic skills as they enter into the workforce."

You must be 16 to 21 and live in Erie County to apply.

Those interested have until June 4 to fill out an application.