US Department of Labor provides grant to assist with flood recovery efforts in northwest Missouri

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,283,567 National Emergency Grant to create temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist with cleanup and recovery efforts in northwest Missouri following floods that occurred from June 1 to Aug. 1.

"This summer, Missouri suffered its worst floods in 60 years. Levees were broken, roads were damaged and destroyed, and farmland and houses were flooded," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Recovery is never easy, but we want the people of Missouri to know that they are not alone and the federal government is committed to helping them get back on their feet. This Labor Department grant will help rebuild the affected communities and, at the same time, provide a source of income for eligible workers."

The funds are being awarded to the Missouri Division of Workforce Development. Of the $2,283,567 announced today, $1,141,784 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the state demonstrates a continued need for assistance.

On Aug. 12, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared 11 Missouri counties eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program: Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Carroll, Cooper, Holt, Howard, Lafayette, Platte, Ray and Saline. More information on designated disaster areas in Missouri is available from FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/news/eventcounties.fema?id=15312.

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/.