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ETA News Release: [08/13/2008]
Contact Name: Terry Shawn or Jennifer Kaplan
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676 or x5052
Release Number: 08-1159-DAL

U.S. Department of Labor announces $7.4 million grant to help Texas clean up and recover from Hurricane Dolly

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $7,350,171 grant to Texas to create approximately 475 temporary jobs to assist in cleanup and recovery efforts as a result of Hurricane Dolly.

"This $7.4 million grant will provide Texans with temporary jobs assisting in disaster relief and clean-up efforts to help communities recover from Hurricane Dolly damage," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao.

On July 24, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared the following counties in Texas eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Aransas, Bexar, Brooks, Calhoun, Cameron, Hidalgo, Jim Wells, Kenedy, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio, Starr, Victoria and Willacy.

The grant, awarded to the Texas Workforce Commission, will be used in Gulf Coast counties to provide temporary employment on projects for the cleanup, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of destroyed public structures, facilities and lands within affected communities. Funds will also be used for projects that provide retraining services for those who cannot return to work and humanitarian assistance for disaster victims, including work on the homes of individuals eligible for the federally funded weatherization program.

Of the total announced today, $2,450,000 will be released initially. The balance will be released as the state demonstrates a continued need for disaster assistance.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information on National Emergency Grants, visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.