News Release
ETA News Release: [August 19, 2003]
Contact Name: Ed Frank
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao Announces $3.2 Million Grant To Aid Pillowtex Workers In Virginia
WASHINGTON -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a National Emergency Grant totaling $3.2 million to aid approximately 581 workers dislocated from Pillowtex Corporation's Fieldale, Va., facility. Of the total, $1 million will be available immediately.
"This Administration is committed to help Pillowtex workers get the training and support services they need to find new jobs, and that's what this $3.2 million grant will help accomplish," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "In addition, Rapid Response teams are already helping workers with their pension and health benefits. We will not be satisfied until every worker who wants to work can find a job."
The grant awarded to the Virginia Employment Commission will be used to provide an array of employment transition-related assistance to workers located in Henry, Patrick and Pittsylvania Counties and the cities of Martinsville and Danville. Services provided include skills assessment for transferable skills, job referrals, career counseling, skills training, financial counseling and supportive services such as relocation assistance, child-care and needs-related payments.
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.
On July 30, 2003, Pillowtex Corporation, a textile manufacturing and distribution firm, announced the closure of all its facilities nationwide.
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