Preparing Youth for Success

The City of Seattle's Human Services Department (HSD) is committed to ensuring all children and youth transition successfully into adulthood. HSD's Youth and Family Empowerment (YFE) Division supports positive youth and family development through strategic investments in community safety, youth employment opportunities, mentoring and educational supports, affordable living, family support, food and nutrition, and behavioral and mental health programs.

Programs and services funded by YFE have been key elements of signature initiatives by the City of Seattle including the Mayor's Youth Opportunity Initiative, Youth Employment Initiative, and Our Best. HSD is deeply committed to ensuring that all Seattle youth are prepared for the future regardless of race, income, immigration status, or neighborhood. To achieve this, the department supports a combination of direct services to Seattle youth and robust investments.

Programs and Services:

Seattle Youth Employment Program

The Seattle Youth Employment Program (SYEP) helps young people (ages 16 to 24) from low-income households and communities that experience racial, social, and economic disparities prepare for entry-level jobs in Seattle. The goal is to increase youth and young adults’ ability to pursue careers that pay well and are meaningful to them.

Summer Food Service Program

The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) was established to ensure that children and teens age 18 and younger receive free, healthy breakfasts, lunches, and snacks during the summer months when school is not in session.