ETA News Release: [July 11, 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 Nearly $528,000
to Aid 225 Dislocated Workers in Iowa
WASHINGTON -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a National Emergency Grant of $527,835 to assist approximately 225 workers dislocated as a result of permanent closures at Celestica and Adecco in Mount Pleasant, Iowa.
"Iowans affected by these layoffs need access to services that will help them prepare for new careers in high growth industries," said Secretary Chao. "This grant will provide to these Iowa workers the training and supportive services they need to transition into new jobs with promising futures."
Assistance available through the grant will include assessment, counseling and case management. Supportive services will also be available, including follow-up after participants have received re-employment assistance.
Workers affected by the layoffs also were previously certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) in March 2005. The grant announced today and awarded to the Iowa Workforce Development Department 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 of searching for a job, with a maximum reimbursement 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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