ETA News Release: [May 19, 2005]
Contact Name: Michael Volpe or David James
Phone Number: 202-693-3984 or 202-693-4676
U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Announces $1 Million Grant to Aid 170 Dislocated Workers in Oregon
WASHINGTON -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a National Emergency Grant of up to $1,013,158, with an initial release of $252,738, to assist approximately 170 workers dislocated as a result of layoffs at the Amalgamated Sugar Processing Plant in Nyssa, Oregon.
"Oregonians affected by these layoffs need access to services that will help them prepare for new jobs in high-growth industries," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This grant, which supplements Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits, will ensure these workers get training and assistance to help them transition into new careers."
Assistance available through the National Emergency Grant will include assessment, counseling and case management. Supportive services will also be available and include follow-up after participants have received reemployment assistance.
Workers affected by the layoffs also were certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) on March 21, 2005. The grant announced today and awarded to the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development, will provide services complementary to those furnished by TAA.
Under the TAA program, eligible workers can receive up to 104 weeks of training and up to 130 weeks if remedial training is necessary. Workers can also receive job search allowances to recoup up to ninety percent of the costs incurred while searching for a job, up to a maximum of $1,250.
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.
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