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ETA News Release: [04/04/2006]
Contact Name: David James or Mike Volpe
Phone Number: 202-693-4676 or 202-693-3984
Release Number: 06-602-DAL

U.S. Secretary of Labor Announces $1 Million Grant to Aid Dislocated Auto Industry Workers in Oklahoma

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a $1 million grant to assist workers affected by plant closings at General Motors (GM) in Oklahoma City, Okla. The grant, awarded to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, will serve approximately 300 salaried GM workers and 700 affected workers from its supplier network.

"Oklahoma workers impacted by the GM plant closings need access to services that will help them find new jobs," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This $1 million grant will provide career counseling, skills training, job search and other assistance to connect these workers with new opportunities for successful careers."

General Motors recently announced plans to close the Oklahoma City location and layoffs began Feb. 17. Rapid response teams in Oklahoma City are in contact with GM and supplier company employees to inform them of the services available to affected workers.

Resources available through the grant will prepare participants for new employment through an array of services including skills assessment, career counseling and career planning, education and skills training. Resources will also assist with relocation, out-of-area job search and other related supportive services.

The projects funded by the grant announced today will be operated in five local areas to include Big Five Community Services Inc., Durant; Central Oklahoma Workforce Investment Board, Oklahoma City; East Central Workforce Investment Board, Shawnee; Norman Economic Development Coalition, Norman; and South Central Workforce Investment Board, Duncan, Okla.

National Emergency Grants are part of the Secretary's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information on the Department of Labor's employment and training programs, please visit www.doleta.gov.