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ETA News Release: [08/15/2003]
Contact Name: Yvonne
Ralsky
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao Announces $20.6 Million
in Grants to Aid Pillowtex Workers in North Carolina
KANNAPOLIS, N. C.—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao
today announced two National Emergency Grants totaling $20.6 million to aid
approximately 4,000 workers dislocated from Pillowtex Corporation in Cabarrus,
Rowan and Rockingham Counties.
“We want to do everything we can to help the workers of Pillowtex.
Rapid Response teams were dispatched immediately on site to help workers with
their pension and health benefits,” said Secretary of Labor Elaine L.
Chao. “This $20.6 million grant will help Pillowtex's workers access
training to prepare them for new job opportunities.”
A grant for $13 million will be used to provide an array of employment
transition-related assistance, including institutional learning, basic remedial
education, on-the-job training, job development and placement, job search and
relocation, and supportive services.
The demand occupations in the area, for which training will be provided,
include electronic technicians, computer-related fields, medical professionals
and industrial maintenance, transportation and construction trades.
An additional grant of $7.6 million will pay 65 percent of qualified
health insurance premiums for workers eligible for assistance under the Trade
Adjustment Reform Act of 2002.
National Emergency Grants are part of the Secretary’s discretionary
fund. A grant is awarded after a state submits a request and the grant
guidelines have been met.
A determination is still pending on a petition for additional assistance
through Trade Adjustment Assistance filed on behalf of the Pillowtex workers on
Aug. 6.
On July 30, 2003, Pillowtex Corporation, a textile manufacturing and
distribution firm, announced the closure of all its facilities nationwide.
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