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ETA News Release: [10/14/2008]
Contact Name: Terry Shawn or Jennifer Kaplan
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676 or x5052
Release Number: 08-1441-BOS

U.S. Department of Labor announces nearly $150,000 grant to assist workers in Maine affected by housing industry layoffs

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $149,107 grant to assist approximately 54 workers affected by layoffs at three companies within the modular housing industry in Oxford, Maine. Of the 54 workers targeted for services, 24 have been certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA).

"Today's grant will assist affected workers in Maine's housing industry by providing them the training and services that will help speed their return to work," said Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Brent R. Orrell.

This grant, awarded to the Maine Department of Labor, will be operated by the Central Western Maine Workforce Investment Board. All affected workers will have access to a wide array of dislocated worker services. Under the grant, workers certified as eligible for TAA also will have access to additional services not covered under the TAA program. These services include skills assessment, counseling, case management, job search assistance, job placement and follow-up.

The Oxford companies affected are Burlington Homes, Eco-Building Systems and Keiser Homes.

Layoffs at the three companies started early in 2007 and continued through spring 2008.

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, visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.