U.S. Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $2 million in aid to Washington state for recovery from recent floods

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,027,190 grant to Washington state to create approximately 130 temporary jobs to assist in flood cleanup efforts.

"Washington endured torrential rainfall and high volumes of melted snow this past January, resulting in mass flooding throughout the western part of the state. Today's grant will create temporary jobs to help clean up the areas that were affected by the floodwaters," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

The Washington State Employment Security Department will receive the grant and provide temporary employment projects for cleanup, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of destroyed public structures, facilities and land within affected communities. Funds also will be used to provide core, intensive and retraining services for those selected for the temporary jobs who cannot return to work.

On Jan. 30, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared Washington state's Pierce County, among others, eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program. The state has targeted Pierce County for assistance under this grant because it is one of the hardest hit areas still in need of assistance for cleanup.

Of the $2,027,190 announced today, $700,000 will be released initially. The balance will be released as the state demonstrates a continued need for disaster 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/.