Press Release  AG's Office Opens Applications For Annual Healthy Summer Youth Jobs Grant Program

Boston — The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office (AGO) announced today that it is now accepting applications for the FY2026 Healthy Summer Youth Jobs Program (HSYJ), which provides funding for youth summer jobs that advance positive public health outcomes and meaningful professional development opportunities for young people. The AGO will award multiple applicants up to $12,500 each, with a total award amount of up to $375,000.

Since its inception 11 years ago, HSYJ has awarded more than $3 million in grants, funding more than 1,000 summer youth jobs in 85 cities and towns across the Commonwealth. Past grant recipients include programs that improve public health in low-income communities, advance health related environmental justice, and develop health literacy so young people can learn skills to support their mental health. Through the program, young people enrich their own professional development through on-the-job experience, skills development, and career planning.

Examples of eligible programs include, but are not limited to:

• Mental health awareness and peer support programs;
• Nutrition and food security initiatives that increase access to healthy foods;
• Environmental projects addressing the health effects of pollution and climate change;
• Substance use/vaping prevention and harm reduction programs; 
• Violence prevention and community safety programs integrating restorative justice or peer mediation approaches;
• Health literacy and education initiatives designed to increase awareness of public health issues and accessible community resources; and
• Physical activity and wellness programs that promote sustained engagement and improved health outcomes.

For more information on HSYJ, including details on how to apply, please visit:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/fy2026-healthy-summer-youth-jobs-grant

The development of the FY2026 Healthy Summer Youth Jobs Grant Program was informed by members of the Attorney General’s Youth Advisory Council, including Hiba El Fatihi, Lili Rose Proctor, and Fathia Shodeyi. 

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