US Department of Labor announces more than $709,000 to continue assisting workers in Idaho affected by call center layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $709,864 National Emergency Grant increment to continue to provide re-employment and retraining services to workers affected by the closing of Dell Inc.'s call center in Twin Falls, Idaho.

"These workers will continue to receive career guidance, job placement assistance, skills training and other re-employment services that will help them as they seek out good jobs in promising industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "There is no doubt that the job market remains challenging, but we will make every effort to ensure that these Idahoans seeking employment are receiving the help they deserve."

On Feb. 23, a National Emergency Grant was awarded for up to $1,324,672, with $614,808 released initially, to serve workers affected by layoffs resulting from the closure of the Dell call center. Layoffs at the Twin Falls facility began in November 2009 and continued through January 2010 with the center's closure.

National Emergency Grants are awarded at the discretion of the secretary of labor based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.