US Department of Labor provides $1.2 million grant to assist storm recovery efforts in Minnesota

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a $1,160,391 National Emergency Grant award to assist clean-up and recovery efforts following three days of severe storms and flooding that struck Minnesota this past September.

"The recent storms and flooding inflicted significant damage on public infrastructure across southern Minnesota," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Helping communities get back on their feet following natural disasters is the right thing to do, and I am pleased that my department has the opportunity to offer assistance."

This grant is being awarded to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. Funds will be used to create temporary jobs to assist in recovery efforts related to damage caused by flooding that occurred when more than 10 inches of rain fell in less than 24 hours.

On Oct. 13, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared the following 21 Minnesota counties eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Blue Earth, Cottonwood, Dodge, Faribault, Freeborn, Goodhue, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Mower, Murray, Olmsted, Pipestone, Rice, Rock, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca, Watonwan and Winona.

Of the $1,160,391 announced today, $580,195 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state 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/.