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ETA News Release: [11/16/2007]
Contact Name: Jennifer Kaplan or Terry Shawn
Phone Number: (202) 693-5052 or x4676
Release Number: 07-1802-NAT

U.S. Department of Labor announces nearly $660,000 grant for New Hampshire to assist dislocated workers

Grant will assist workers affected by the closure of Wausau Paper Mill in Groveton

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a $659,992 grant, with an initial release of $325,537, to assist approximately 250 workers affected by the closure of Wausau Paper Inc. in Groveton, N.H.

"This $660,000 grant is to help the workers affected by this closure find new jobs in growing industries," said Secretary Chao. "These workers will be able to take advantage of employment services focused on connecting them with new career opportunities."

In addition, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco on
Nov. 19 will join Senator John Sununu and state and local officials in Groveton for a roundtable discussion that addresses the impact of the Wausau Paper closure and the future of the area's economy.

"Besides providing immediate assistance to workers facing this closure, federal, state and local officials are identifying strategies to help rebuild and strengthen the region's economic future," said DeRocco. "Together, we can align and leverage the public and private resources available to foster an environment for job creation and new opportunities for Groveton workers."

On October 23, Wausau Paper issued a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification announcing that layoffs would begin December 31. The state soon will open a Worker Assistance Center in Groveton to provide employment and training services to affected workers.

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, please visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.