WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded a grant of $395,678 to assist workers affected by the closure of two Moosehead Manufacturing plants located in Dover-Foxcroft and Monson, Maine.

"This grant will help these workers take the steps necessary to prepare for new careers," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco. "Workers will be able to take advantage of education and training assistance to re-establish employment in growing industries that offer the opportunity for good wages."

On February 8, 2007, Moosehead Manufacturing announced the immediate closing of both of its facilities. Workers from both plants have been certified as eligible to apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and Alternative Trade Adjustment Assistance.

The U.S. Department of Labor grant, awarded to the Maine Department of Labor, will provide affected Moosehead Manufacturing workers with services not covered under the TAA program. Services may include assessment, individual counseling, career planning, case management, employment readiness services and adult education.

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 on National Emergency Grants and other U.S. Labor Department employment and training programs, please visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.