US Department of Labor announces $1.4 million grant to assist workers affected by layoffs from aircraft manufacturing industry in Oregon

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $1,412,920 grant to assist approximately 328 workers in the state of Oregon affected by layoffs from Cessna Aircraft Co. in Bend, Ore.

"This grant will provide re-employment services vital to ensuring these workers re-enter the workforce as quickly as possible," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "They deserve our support as they seek to upgrade existing skills or enter training that leads to good jobs in promising regional industries."

Awarded to the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development, this National Emergency Grant will be operated by the Oregon Consortium and Oregon Workforce Alliance/Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council. If a pending Trade Adjustment Assistance petition for these workers is approved, this grant will provide access to "wrap-around" and supportive services – such as dependent care and transportation assistance – in addition to the full array of training and employment-related services under this grant.

Layoffs at Cessna Aircraft Co. took place between Feb. 1 and June 30, 2009.

Of the $1,412,920 announced today, $925,664 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 http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.