US Department of Labor announces continued funding to assist former manufacturing workers in eastern Iowa

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $117,453 National Emergency Grant supplemental award to provide re-employment services to more than 100 workers affected by layoffs within the manufacturing sector in eastern Iowa.

"As a result of this supplemental funding, manufacturing workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own can continue to participate in training programs and job search services," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The Labor Department is committed to helping these individuals obtain skills and credentials that match the needs of 21st century employers."

Awarded to Iowa Workforce Development, the grant will continue assisting about 90 workers dislocated from Featherlite Trailers in Cresco, Iowa, who were included in the initial award, as well as workers from Eagle Window and Door Manufacturing Inc. in Dubuque who have been added to the group covered.

An initial award of $521,910 was approved on Aug. 10, 2009.

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/.