US Department of Labor provides more than $1.2 million to assist recovery efforts in Arkansas

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $1,238,564 National Emergency Grant award to assist clean-up and recovery efforts after the October severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that affected much of Arkansas.

"These resources will help Arkansas recover from severe weather events that impacted the state, while helping dislocated workers get jobs as part of the clean-up and recovery efforts," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

These funds will be awarded to the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services. Funds will be used to create temporary jobs to assist in recovery efforts following the damage caused by the severe weather.

On Dec. 3, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared 38 counties in Arkansas eligible for FEMA s Public Assistance Program.

Of the $1,238,564 announced today, $412,885 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for 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/.