US Department of Labor provides $4 million to assist Puerto Ricos recovery from severe storms

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $4 million National Emergency Grant award to assist cleanup and recovery efforts in the wake of severe storms and flooding that struck Puerto Rico in May 2010.

"The severe storms that battered Puerto Rico earlier this year left the island's residents in need of our help," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This grant will support ongoing recovery efforts and help Puerto Ricans return their lives to normalcy."

The funds will be awarded to the Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources. Funds will be used to create temporary jobs to assist in the recovery efforts as a result of the devastation caused by the severe storms and the resultant flooding.

On June 24, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared 10 municipalities across Puerto Rico eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Arecibo, Barranquitas, Coamo, Corozal, Dorado, Naranjito, Orocovis, Utuado, Vega Alta and Vega Baja.

Of the $4 million announced today, $1 million will be released initially. Additional funding, up to the amount approved, will be made available as the commonwealth demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

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/.

• Read this news release en Espa ol.