U.S. Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $3.2 million to assist trade-affected workers throughout Illinois
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $3,248,000 grant to continue services to approximately 3,884 unemployed Illinois workers following mass layoffs and permanent closures that began more than three years ago.
“This $3.2 million grant will provide these Illinois workers with access to employment services including job search assistance to help them return to the workforce as quickly as possible,” said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao.
This grant, awarded to the Illinois Department of Workforce Development, will provide trade-affected Illinois workers with full access to the dislocated worker services not available through the Trade Adjustment Assistance program. Skills assessment, counseling, case management and job search assistance are among those services offered. Supportive services may also be available as needed.
Today’s grant covers workers from 31 companies who remain unemployed as a result of ongoing layoffs and closures, the first of which were announced in March 2005.
Of the total funds announced today, $1,624,000 will be released initially. The balance will be released as the state demonstrates a continued need for 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.
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