US Department of Labor provides grant to assist Missouri with recovery efforts following tornado damage

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $5,822,352 National Emergency Grant to assist with clean-up and recovery efforts in the wake of tornado damage in Missouri, including the May 22 tornado that devastated Joplin.

"The incredible damage that this latest tornado has inflicted on the people of Joplin is unprecedented," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The Labor Department's grant will assist affected Missouri communities with clean-up efforts that will help lead to a sustained recovery for the region."

The funds are being awarded to the Missouri Division of Workforce Development and will be used to create temporary jobs to assist in recovery efforts.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency declared several Missouri counties, including Jasper and Newton, eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program following recent severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. Jasper and Newton counties have been targeted to receive assistance under this grant. Additional counties may be included at a later date if further evaluation warrants their inclusion. More information on designated disaster areas in Missouri is available from FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/news/event.fema?id=14395.

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/.