New York, NY - Congressman Charles B. Rangel commended the Obama Administration and the Department of Labor for providing New York State with $10.3 million in federal funding for reemployment and job training services.

"Career transition assistance is much-needed relief for those New Yorkers who have lost their jobs in the wake of the economic downturn," said Rangel. "Federal investments like these are the key to restarting growth and putting money back in the pockets of the American people."

The grant was announced as part of the Labor Department's Reemployment and Eligibility Assessment (REA) initiative. Funding is slated to help the state provide individualized job search and training services to New Yorkers currently receiving unemployment insurance.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the grant award in recognition of the success of New York State's One-Stop Career Centers. Job coaches at these state-funded centers reach out to businesses with job openings and connect them with unemployed Americans. Career Centers also engage in a comprehensive skills assessment with every jobseeker to analyze and fulfill short-term training needs. Past grants have, on average, successfully connected unemployed New Yorkers to jobs two weeks sooner than otherwise.

Added Rangel: "Our state has been historically successful at connecting unemployed New Yorkers with their desired job openings. Career training programs are a prime example of successful investment on the part of the federal government. I applaud Governor Cuomo for his ability and leadership in bringing resources to New York."

The federal grant will be used to bring the number of job coaches to 135 at 53 One-Stop Career Centers across the state. New Yorkers can find more information concerning state job training services at www.jobs.ny.gov.