U.S. Department of Labor announces $3.4 million grant to assist workers affected by manufacturing layoffs in Wisconsin

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $3,421,645 grant to assist approximately 1,227 workers across the state of Wisconsin affected by layoffs at 11 companies in the manufacturing industry in the northeastern part of the state.

"These Wisconsin workers have made tremendous sacrifices, and they deserve our support," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This grant will ensure that they receive the training and reemployment services necessary to find new jobs."

Awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, this grant will be operated by the Bay Area Workforce Development Board Inc. The grant will provide affected workers with access to the full array of employment-related services. Under this grant, approximately 625 workers also certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) will have access to "wrap-around" services such as skills assessment, counseling, job search assistance, job placement assistance and follow-up not available through TAA. Supportive services such as dependent care, transportation assistance and relocation assistance may also be provided.

The manufacturing industry of northeastern Wisconsin has been heavily impacted by the declining national automotive and construction industries. Between October 2008 and April 2009, workers from the 11 manufacturing companies were notified of pending dislocations.

Of the $3,421,645 announced today, $1,667,740 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

The amount released today 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 www.doleta.gov/NEG/.