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Atlanta program aims to turn boys selling water into entreprenuers

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Updated  May 17, 2021 5:56pm EDT
Atlanta
FOX 5 Atlanta

Atlanta programs aims to turn water boys into entrepreneurs

The Hire Atlanta Youth program has about 1,100 job commitments so far.

ATLANTA - The mayor of Atlanta wants to try to turn the water boys into entrepreneurs.

The program that Keisha Lance Bottoms has been talking about for months is ready to go, with eleven hundred job commitments for young people. 

Robyn Wallace, a small business owner, has signed up. She runs Local Green Atlanta, a restaurant on the westside.

"These water boys are hustlers," she said.

Wallace said she is reviewing the backgrounds of eight young people with plans to hire three. 

Water boy hospitalized after collision at busy Buckhead intersection

City of Atlanta officials said police are approaching children selling water bottles in traffic with city hall programs that encourage entrepreneurship. Some are skeptical they'll make an impact.

Wallace emphasized she's offering real jobs. 

"They deserve an opportunity, but they have to show up," she said. 

The mayor hired Janean Lewis as a Youth Engagement Director. 

In addition to matching young people with employers, youth will also be directed to classes supervised by the school system. 

And it is more than summer school. The youngsters can qualify for stipends — an earn as you learn initiative. 

WATCH: FOX 5 Atlanta live news coverage

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