U.S. Department of Labor announces grant of nearly $1.7 million to Minnesota to assist Red River flood recovery effort

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $1,680,000 grant to create approximately 140 temporary jobs in Minnesota related to the Red River flood cleanup and recovery effort.

"Recent flooding has left a portion of Minnesota in need of cleanup and recovery services," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This grant will provide temporary jobs for a number of dislocated workers to help restore areas affected by flooding."

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will receive the grant, which will create temporary jobs for the cleanup, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of destroyed public structures, facilities and land within affected communities. Those participants who cannot find work once their temporary assignments end also can receive core, intensive retraining services under this grant. Additionally, the grant will provide food, clothing, shelter and other types of humanitarian assistance to flood victims.

On April 9, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared the following Minnesota counties eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Clay, Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Traverse and Wilkin.

Of the $1,680,000 announced today, $560,000 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available 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/.