US Department of Labor announces $1.1 million grant to assist workers in Oregon affected by retail industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $1,137,425 grant to assist about 100 workers affected by layoffs at Joe's Sports, Outdoor, Auto/Truck and More in Wilsonville, Ore.

"Helping all workers access the type of training opportunities that lead to new careers and a stronger economy is a crucial part of our mission at the U.S. Department of Labor," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Today's grant will provide these Oregonians with the re-employment and retraining services necessary to enter good jobs in promising regional industries."

Awarded to the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development, this grant will be operated by The Workforce Investment Council of Clackamas County. The 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 Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development analysis indicates possible future job vacancies in the medical, human resources, business administration, criminal justice and hospitality fields.

On June 15, 2009, Joe's Sports, Outdoor, Auto/Truck and More, a supplier of sporting goods, outdoor equipment, automotive supplies and general merchandise, closed its corporate offices, distribution center and retail stores.

Of the $1,137,425 announced today, $863,865 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/.