US Department of Labor announces $437,000 grant to assist workers in Iowa affected by information industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $437,084 grant to assist about 75 workers affected by layoffs from CDS Global in Red Oak, Iowa.

"The information industry has experienced painful layoffs during this recession," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This grant will help affected Iowans get the retraining and re-employment services necessary to transfer their skills and secure new jobs in expanding fields."

Awarded to Iowa Workforce Development, this grant will be operated by MATURA Action Corp. The grant will provide affected workers with access to dislocated worker services. These services may include skills assessment, computer skills training, individual career counseling and occupational skills training.

On April 30, 2010, CDS Global, a provider of outsourced business solutions to multiple industries, issued a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notice announcing the permanent closure of its facility in Red Oak, which is located in southwestern Iowa. Layoffs took place between May 10 and June 30, 2010.

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/.