US Department of Labor announces grant exceeding $1.5 million to assist workers in 4 states and Puerto Rico affected by agriculture industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor announced a grant of $1,573,542 to assist about 385 migrant and seasonal farmworkers affected by layoffs at numerous orchards and farms in New Jersey, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania, as well as in the territory of Puerto Rico.

"This grant will help ensure that migrant and seasonal farmworkers do not fall through the cracks, and give them access to the re-employment and retraining services needed to find jobs in emerging local industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

Awarded to and operated by Pathstone Corp., this grant will provide affected farm workers with access to dislocated worker services. Services may include skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling and occupational skills training.

Analysis by Pathstone Corp., a nonprofit organization that provides services to low-income families and communities, indicates possible future job opportunities in green jobs, health care and skilled trade industries.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on the ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.