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ETA News Release: [08/25/2008]
Contact Name: Jennifer Kaplan or Terry Shawn
Phone Number: (202) 693-5052 or x4676
Release Number: 08-1214-ATL

U.S. Department of Labor announces $20 million in aid to Florida for recovery from Tropical Storm Fay

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $20 million grant to the state of Florida to fund the creation of approximately 6,500 temporary jobs for cleanup and recovery efforts underway in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Fay.

"This $20 million grant will provide Floridians with temporary jobs assisting in disaster relief and clean-up efforts to help communities recover from the record amounts of rain that fell as a result of Tropical Storm Fay," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao.

On August 21, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared all 67 Florida counties as eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance program.

The grant, awarded to the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, will provide funding to create temporary employment on projects that provide cleanup, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of damaged structures and public lands within affected communities.

Funds also will be used for projects that provide food, clothing, shelter and other types of humanitarian assistance, including work on the homes of individuals who are eligible for the federally funded weatherization program with priority assigned to the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

Of the $20 million awarded, $8 million will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for disaster assistance.

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.