US Department of Labor provides more than $938,000 to assist Kentuckys recovery from severe storms

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $938,441 National Emergency Grant award to assist clean-up and recovery efforts in the wake of severe storms, flooding, and mudslides that struck Kentucky in July 2010.

"A number of Kentuckians saw their jobs and livelihood swept away by these terrible storms," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This grant will support ongoing recovery efforts and help Kentucky tackle the challenges left behind by the floodwaters and mudslides."

These funds will be awarded to the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. 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 and mudslides.

On July 23, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared Pike County, Kentucky eligible for FEMA s Public Assistance Program. On August 6, FEMA expanded the declaration to include the counties of Carter, Elliott, Lewis, and Shelby as eligible for public 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/.