U.S. Department of Labor announces $22 million grant to assist Tri-State rank-and-file workers affected by financial industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $22 million grant to assist approximately 7,400 workers affected by financial industry layoffs in the New York, Connecticut and New Jersey Tri-State area.

"Due to the crisis in the financial system, thousands of people lost their jobs through no fault of their own," said acting Secretary of Labor Edward C. Hugler. "The services provided through this grant will assist front line and back office workers in getting back to work as soon as possible."

Today's grant to the New York State Department of Labor will provide access to dislocated worker services that may include skills assessment, individual career counseling, occupational skills training and job placement assistance.

Of the $22 million announced today, $10,928,661 will be released initially. Of the amount released initially, New York will be provided $5,522,810, Connecticut will be provided $2,625,312 and New Jersey will be provided $2,780,539. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the states demonstrate 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.