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ETA News Release: [06/04/2003]
Contact Name: Elissa Pruett
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676

Labor Grant Will Aid Dislocated South Carolina Workers

Chao Announces National Emergency Grant of over $6.4 million to Supplement Re-employment Programs

WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao announced a National Emergency Grant of over $6.4 million that will aid approximately 1,400 South Carolina workers dislocated from manufacturing and related industries. 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.

“The President and I are committed to helping displaced workers access the job and skills training they need to find new jobs that will enable them to provide for themselves and their families,” said Chao. “We have worked with Senator Graham and Congressman DeMint to ensure these funds are deployed as quickly as possible to help these South Carolina workers secure good jobs.”

The grant project delivers critical help to unemployed South Carolina citizens, underscoring one of the main goals of the President’s economic agenda. The statewide project will be operated by the Upper Savannah Council of Governments, Greenville County Workforce Development Board, Midlands Workforce Development Board, Pee Dee Regional Council of Governments and the Waccamaw Regional Planning Council. Programs will provide a variety of transition-related assistance including assessment, case management, training, job development, job placement and supportive services (e.g., child care, transportation costs).

“Helping American workers who have lost their jobs remains a top priority for this Administration,” said Chao.

For more information on the Department of Labor’s unemployment and re-employment programs please go to www.dol.gov.

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