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ETA News Release: [08/19/2003]
Contact Name: Ed
Frank
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao Announces $3.2 Million
Grant to Aid Pillowtex Workers in Virginia
WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today
announced a National Emergency Grant totaling $3.2 million to aid approximately
581 workers dislocated from Pillowtex Corporation’s Fieldale, Va.,
facility. Of the total, $1 million will be available immediately.
“This Administration is committed to help Pillowtex workers get the
training and support services they need to find new jobs, and that’s what
this $3.2 million grant will help accomplish,” said Secretary of Labor
Elaine L. Chao. “In addition, Rapid Response teams are already helping
workers with their pension and health benefits. We will not be satisfied until
every worker who wants to work can find a job.”
The grant awarded to the Virginia Employment Commission will be used to
provide an array of employment transition-related assistance to workers located
in Henry, Patrick and Pittsylvania Counties and the cities of Martinsville and
Danville. Services provided include skills assessment for transferable skills,
job referrals, career counseling, skills training, financial counseling and
supportive services such as relocation assistance, child-care and needs-related
payments.
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.
On July 30, 2003, Pillowtex Corporation, a textile manufacturing and
distribution firm, announced the closure of all its facilities nationwide.
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