U.S. Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $877,000 to assist workers in Oregon affected by motor-home-industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced an $877,096 grant to assist approximately 150 workers affected by layoffs at Northwood Manufacturing located in LaGrande, Ore.

"Today's grant will aid affected workers in Oregon by providing job-search assistance and retraining, so workers can return to jobs in new industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

Awarded to the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development, this grant will be operated by the Oregon Consortium/Training and Employment Consortium. The grant will provide affected workers with access to dislocated worker services. These services may include skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling and occupational skills training.

The Eastern Oregon Labor Trends analysis indicates possible future job vacancies in the construction and extraction; health care; installation, maintenance and repair; office and administrative support; and service industries.

Layoffs at Northwood Manufacturing occurred between May 15, 2008, and Nov. 21, 2008.

Of the $877,096 announced today, $438,548 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates 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 http://www.doleta.gov/NEG.