A Popeyes restaurant in Black Rock is hiring young people as part of a program it came up with to help keep them off the street during the pandemic.

General manager Eddymir Torres, 24, says she is working hard to help young people who have suddenly found themselves with a lot of extra time on their hands, since they are not physically going to school and most programs geared toward them have been suspended.

She began working at the restaurant as a cashier six years ago, and says it was her first job out of high school.

The young people Torres hired are bringing free meals from Popeyes to local mothers and grandmothers.

Community activist Tony Barr had originally approached Torres about hiring teenagers from the nearby PT Barnum Housing Complex. Roberto Smith, 18, says he was thrilled to get the job.

Torres says she's proud to work for a company that demonstrates what can be done with a little friendliness and faith.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal calls Popeyes "an outstanding corporate citizen" for stepping up to help with crisis.