WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced an $803,340 grant, with an initial release of $482,998, to assist approximately 295 workers in Missouri affected by the closures of Rowe Furniture, located in Poplar Bluff, and Dana Corp., located in Cape Girardeau.

“Missouri workers affected by these plant closures will receive important re-employment assistance through the grant announced today,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Emily Stover DeRocco.  “More than $800,000 will fund services to help these workers prepare for new careers in growing industries.”

Rowe Furniture closed its Poplar Bluff plant on Nov. 22, 2006.  On Nov. 11, 2006, Dana Corp. announced the closure of its Cape Girardeau plant effective Nov. 30, 2007.  Affected workers from both plants have been certified by the U.S. Labor Department as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), which includes tuition assistance for education and job training, and temporary income support.

The grant announced today was awarded to the Missouri Division of Workforce Development and will provide services not covered under the TAA program, such as assessment, counseling, case management and other support.

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, please visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.