US Labor Department provides grant increment to continue assisting workers of 5 companies impacted by layoffs at Sioux City, Iowa, meat processing plant

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced an $815,740 National Emergency Grant increment to continue re-employment services for about 800 workers affected by the closure of the John Morrell and Co. pork processing plant in April 2010 and resulting layoffs at four companies whose businesses were impacted by that closure: Jacobson Bekins Logistics, Mossberg Sanitarian, High-Tech Electric, and United Vending and Food Service. All five companies are located in Sioux City, Iowa.

"This funding will provide additional help to Sioux City workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "At this critical juncture on our nation's path to economic recovery, it is essential that the federal government assists workers to obtain training in growing industries."

Awarded to Iowa Workforce Development, the grant will be operated by the Community Action Agency of Siouxland and Job Training Partners to continue providing services such as skills assessments, individual career counseling, and basic and occupational skills training.

A grant of $6,255,784 was awarded on June 30, 2010, with $3,703,681 released initially. Today's increment brings the total funds awarded to date to $4,519,421. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

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.