US Department of Labor announces more than $2.9 million to assist workers in Pima County, Ariz., affected by layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,912,436 grant to assist approximately 800 workers affected by layoffs from multiple companies located in Pima County, Ariz.

"The economy of southern Arizona was hit especially hard by the recession and the collapse of the housing market," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Today's grant will give workers access to indispensable re-employment and retraining services and lead them to careers in promising sectors of the state's economy."

Today's grant is awarded to and operated by Pima County. It will assist workers from a number of companies, across a variety of industries, impacted by layoffs resulting from the collapse of the housing market. These include workers in administrative support services, construction, education, finance, health care, information services, manufacturing, retail and waste management Individuals will have access to dislocated worker services, which may include skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling and occupational skills training. These services will help them transition to careers in high-demand industries of the area's economy, including aerospace and defense, hybrid vehicle repair and maintenance, information security, machining and supply chain management.

Of the $2,912,436 announced today, $1,164,497 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the grantee demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

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