ETA New Releases, Employment & Training Administration (ETA)

ETA News Release: [November 18, 2004]
Contact Name: Lorette Post or Public Affairs
Phone Number: 202-693-3984 or 202-693-4676

U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Announces $1.3 Million for Dislocated Workers in Massachusetts

Funds to Assist Workers Laid-Off from MediSense in Bedford

WASHINGTON - U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a National Emergency Grant of up to $1.3 million to assist dislocated workers in Massachusetts. The grant will have an initial release of $497,364.

"The President and I want to ensure that dislocated workers get the training and assistance they need to prepare for new and better careers," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This grant helps workers affected by layoffs from Abbot Laboratories' MediSense facility in Bedford with an array of services including assessment, individualized intensive services, training and supportive services."

"Because many of the affected workers also face language and other employment barriers, the grant will also provide English training and other assistance to expedite their return to the workforce," Chao added.

Awarded to the Massachusetts Department of Workforce Development, the grant will provide assistance to approximately 200 workers from Middlesex and Norfolk counties affected by Abbot's decision to move the MediSense facility operations to California by the end of the year.

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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