US Department of Labor announces $1.3 million grant to assist workers in Idaho affected by call center layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $1,324,672 grant to assist about 275 workers affected by layoffs at Dell Computer's call center in Twin Falls, Idaho.

"This grant will provide important re-employment and retraining services to help workers in Idaho access job opportunities in expanding fields," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

Awarded to and operated by the Idaho Department of Labor, this grant will provide affected workers with access to dislocated worker services. These services may include skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling and occupational skills training.

An Idaho Department of Labor analysis indicates possible upcoming job vacancies in nursing, elementary and secondary education, and general and operations managerial occupations.

Layoffs at Dell's Twin Falls call center began in November 2009 and continued through January 2010 with the facility's closure. Of the $1,324,672 announced today, $614,808 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 through 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/.