US Department of Labor provides additional funding to continue storm recovery and cleanup efforts in Puerto Rico

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $300,000 National Emergency Grant increment to continue recovery and cleanup efforts in the wake of severe storms and flooding that struck Puerto Rico in May 2010. Awarded to the Puerto Rico Department of Labor and Human Resources, the grant is funding temporary jobs filled by eligible dislocated workers assigned to recovery efforts.

"The floodwaters may have receded, but Puerto Rico is still cleaning up," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "These funds will help Puerto Ricans recover from the severe storm of May 2010. They are part of the administration's commitment to all working families, including those on 'la isla del encanto.'"

On June 24, 2010, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared 10 municipalities in the commonwealth of Puerto Rico eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Arecibo, Barranquitas, Coamo, Corozal, Dorado, Naranjito, Orocovis, Utuado, Vega Alta and Vega Baja.

On July 22, 2010, a National Emergency Grant was approved for up to $4 million, with $1 million released initially. A $1 million increment was awarded in December 2010. Additional funding up to the full grant amount approved may be made available as the commonwealth 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.

• Read this news release en Espa ol.