The million-dollar grant will provide jobs for teens, age 14 to 21, during the fall, winter and spring.
"This will put money in young people's pockets, but it will also provide them job training, real work opportunity, but it will also get them out of harm's way," Hughes said.
Urban Affairs Coalition and Philadelphia Youth Network will partner to administer the grant, which will expand existing youth job training and mentorship programs, while creating paid internships and other opportunities.
Philadelphia Youth Network President Chekeema Fulmore-Townsend says the program will likely pay youth above the current minimum wage, help them develop skills and hopefully keep them out of harm's way.
Hughes says there's no doubt about it, this is a kind of anti-violence tool. He says the goal is to keep youth busy after school and on the weekends. He's hoping the private sector pitches in.
"It's a challenge to everybody. We are taking the lead. Come on, everybody, let's join us," Hughes said.
The Urban Affairs Coalition and Philadelphia Youth Network will announce specific of the job opportunities in coming weeks.
