US Department of Labor announces continued assistance to Delaware workers impacted by auto industry layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $707,550 National Emergency Grant increment to continue to provide retraining and re-employment services to about 450 workers affected by layoffs at Chrysler LLC in Newark, Del., General Motors Corp. in Wilmington, Del., and five suppliers to the two companies.

"This grant will provide important training and employment services to auto industry workers from Delaware who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The Labor Department is committed to helping these individuals train for and obtain jobs in growing industries. By supporting these workers, we are also aiding local employers by connecting them with the highly skilled workforce they need to be competitive."

On July 23, 2009, a grant was approved for up to $3,803,246, with $1,194,075 released initially to serve workers affected by layoffs at Chrysler and GM. Today's increment, awarded to the Delaware Department of Labor, brings the total awarded for this project to $1,901,625.

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/.