US Department of Labor to provide assistance for workers affected by layoffs at Katahdin Paper Co. in East Millinocket, Maine

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $657,841 National Emergency Grant to assist about 200 workers affected by layoffs on April 1 at Katahdin Paper Co. in East Millinocket, Maine.

"This grant will provide critical training and employment services for these Maine workers to help them obtain good, stable jobs in growing industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The Labor Department is committed to supporting these workers and at the same time helping employers develop the highly skilled workforce they need to succeed."

Awarded to the Maine Department of Labor, the grant will be operated by the Eastern Maine Development Corp. It will provide assistance to workers in conjunction with other services they will receive as a result of their eligibility for Trade Adjustment Assistance, including training, for employment in Maine industries such as construction, energy, health care, information technology and transportation.

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/.