US Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $470,000 to continue to aid Florida workers impacted by manufacturing industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $470,835 National Emergency Grant supplemental award to the Citrus Levy Marion Regional Workforce Development Board Inc. to provide services to about 575 workers affected by layoffs from the manufacturing industry.

"Today's supplemental funds will continue to help Floridians with job placement assistance, skills training and other re-employment services to help them get started in new careers," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

On Dec. 15, 2008, a grant was awarded in the amount of $859,829 to serve about 464 workers affected by layoffs at 12 companies within the manufacturing industry in the Florida counties of Citrus, Levy, and Marion.

These supplemental funds will provide for the continuation of re-employment assistance to the original 464 workers and for services to an additional 111 workers.

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/.