US Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $495,000 to assist workers in Oregon affected by manufacturing industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $495,238 grant to assist about 90 workers affected by layoffs at Blount Inc. in Portland, Ore., and its subsidiary Carlton Co. Inc. in Milwaukie, Ore.

"The grant is specifically designed to help these workers get back on their feet," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "It will make crucial re-employment and retraining services possible, bringing these Oregonians closer to the type of good jobs that offer stability and opportunities for advancement."

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 these dislocated workers, all of whom are also certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance, with access to "wrap-around" and supportive services. These services include dependent care and transportation assistance, which are not available through the TAA program.

Workers at Blount Inc. and Carlton Co. Inc. experienced layoffs throughout 2009, following the shifting of manufacturing operations to China.

This grant 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/.