State program connects students with disabilities to summer jobs

In South Philadelphia, high school students with disabilities engaged in a summer employment program at Philabundance Community Kitchen, preparing meals for children in need. L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker visited the site to witness the positive impact of the MY Work program, which connects students to job opportunities. Walker noted that the initiative builds confidence and skills while addressing local food insecurity. The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) has provided services to over 478,500 residents with disabilities since 2016 and has connected more than 500 students to paid work experiences this summer.

Philabundance’s LunchBox 2025 program aims to distribute 40,000 lunches and 20,000 breakfasts, emphasizing the need for summer meal support. The collaboration between OVR and Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. has helped 17 students find employment at Philabundance. Walker stated that such partnerships create a stronger workforce and empower young people. Philabundance CEO Loree D.

Jones Brown highlighted the importance of these initiatives in combating food insecurity among children.