U.S. Department of Labor announces $720,000 grant to assist in recovery efforts as result of recent flooding in West Virginia

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $720,000 grant to create approximately 40 temporary jobs for eligible workers to assist in clean-up and recovery efforts resulting from flooding in southern West Virginia.

"The southern West Virginia region has been severely impacted by recent flash flooding," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Today's grant will provide temporary employment and help the area recover from the disaster."

On May, 15, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared five West Virginia counties – McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh and Wyoming – eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program.

WorkForce West Virginia will administer the grant, which will create temporary employment to support projects that provide food, clothing, shelter and other types of humanitarian assistance for those affected. Additional projects will include clean-up, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of destroyed public structures, facilities and lands within the affected communities. Funds may also be used to provide core, intensive and retraining services upon completion of the temporary jobs component for participants who cannot return to work.

Of the $720,000 announced today, $240,000 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for disaster-related 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/.