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ETA News Release: [05/18/2007]
Contact Name: Jennifer Kaplan or Matthew Faraci
Phone Number: (202) 693-5052 or x4676
Release Number: 07-0741-NAT

U.S. Department of Labor announces $20 million grant to assist Greensburg, Kan., in tornado recovery

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded a $20 million grant, with an initial release of $12 million, to the state of Kansas to create approximately 1,000 temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist in cleanup and recovery efforts resulting from the May 4 Greensburg tornado.

"This $20 million grant is to help the Greensburg community recover from the horrific tornado devastation they have suffered," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "The funds will provide temporary jobs to dislocated workers to provide needed services to residents and aid the community in removing debris and repairing damage."

On May 6, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared Kiowa County, Kan., eligible for its Public Assistance program.

The Labor Department grant, awarded to the Kansas Department of Commerce, will provide temporary employment on projects that provide affected individuals with food, clothing and shelter, and assist with cleanup and recovery. Those eligible to participate in the temporary jobs projects include workers dislocated as a result of the tornadoes, other dislocated workers and the long-term unemployed.

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 and other Department of Labor employment and training programs, please visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.