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ETA News Release: [06/18/2008]
Contact Name: Terry Shawn or Jennifer Kaplan
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676 or x5052
Release Number: 08-813-KAN

U.S. Department of Labor giving $17 million to Iowa to aid recovery from flooding and tornadoes

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $17,127,000 grant to create approximately 600 temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers in Iowa to assist in the cleanup and recovery resulting from damage caused by recent flooding and tornadoes.

"Our hearts go out to Iowans who are suffering from the ongoing flooding and who were victims of the recent tornadoes, including last week's tragic loss of life at a Boy Scout camp," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This $17 million grant will pay for temporary jobs to aid in the cleanup and recovery from these natural disasters and will provide humanitarian assistance to Iowans in need."

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has declared multiple counties across Iowa as eligible for its Public Assistance Program.

The grant, awarded to the Iowa Workforce Development agency, will provide funding to create temporary jobs to assist in cleanup, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of destroyed public structures, facilities and lands within the affected communities. Funds will also be used for projects that provide food, clothing, shelter, and other types of humanitarian assistance for disaster victims, including work on the homes of individuals who are eligible for the federally funded weatherization program.

Of the total announced today, $6,000,000 will be released initially, with the balance expected to be released on or around June 30.

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.