US Department of Labor provides training and re-employment assistance to workers affected by closure of AJWright stores in Massachusetts

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $4,279,199 National Emergency Grant to assist approximately 720 workers affected by layoffs throughout the commonwealth of Massachusetts as a result of the closure of AJWright stores, including individuals formerly employed at the company's corporate headquarters, distribution center and retail stores.

"This grant is a step toward helping these Massachusetts workers who have been laid off through no fault of their own," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The Labor Department is committed to supporting these individuals, as they work to qualify for and obtain jobs in growing industries."

Awarded to the Massachusetts Department of Workforce Development, the grant will be operated by the Bristol Workforce Investment Board and the Metro South/West Employment and Training Administration. Affected workers will be able to access employment and training services provided by the grant – including English for speakers of other languages instruction, adult basic education, occupational and vocational training, job development and job placement – at any One-Stop Career Center in the commonwealth. One-Stop Career Centers can be located at http://www.careeronestop.org.

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.