U.S. Department of Labor announces grant of nearly $560,000 to assist manufacturing workers in New Hampshire affected by layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $558,591 grant to assist approximately 160 workers affected by layoffs at eight manufacturing companies located in southern New Hampshire.

"The professionalism and commitment to quality of the American manufacturing workforce is unparalleled," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "These workers deserve our support as they seek to upgrade current skills or enter training leading to good jobs in growing industries."

Awarded to the New Hampshire Department of Labor, this grant will be operated by Southern New Hampshire Services Inc. The grant will provide affected workers with access to dislocated worker services. These services may include skills assessment, individual career counseling and occupational skills training.

The New Hampshire Department of Labor analysis indicates possible future job vacancies in the energy, health care and advanced manufacturing industries. Layoffs at the eight New Hampshire manufacturing companies occurred between July 2008 and February 2009.

This grant will be funded by resources made available for National Emergency Grants under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

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/.