US Department of Labor awards grant to assist workers affected by closure of South Dakota credit card call center

WASHINGTON The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $379,500 National Emergency Grant to provide training and employment services to about 200 workers affected by the closure of the Premier Bankcard call center in Spearfish, S.D. The company announced in May that it would be closing the center and permanently laying off its workers.

"This grant will help dislocated workers by equipping them with the skills necessary to obtain good, stable jobs in the area's high-growth industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis.

Awarded to the South Dakota Department of Labor, the grant will provide services that focus on supporting the needs of local industries, including health care and education.

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/.