US Labor Department announces grant increment to provide re-employment services for workers laid off from Massachusetts and Connecticut companies

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced an $857,225 National Emergency Grant increment to provide employment-related assistance to Massachusetts residents affected by layoffs and closings at 11 companies in Massachusetts and one company in Connecticut representing a variety of industries. This increment will continue services for approximately 330 workers served by an initial increment as well as provide services for an additional 100 workers.

The companies are Big Y Store #2, Blackstone Medical, Durham Manufacturing, Harvey Industries, MassMutual Financial Group and TD Banknorth of Springfield, Mass.; Callaway of Chicopee, Mass.; Hasbro Inc. of East Longmeadow, Mass.; Pyramid Management Group and Soldiers Home in Holyoke of Holyoke, Mass.; Russell Corp./Spalding in West Springfield, Mass; and MeadWestvaco Corp. in Enfield, Conn.

"Today's continued federal funding will allow these workers to prepare for new jobs in emerging industries," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The re-employment services made available by these funds can provide a critical leg up to those seeking gainful employment."

Awarded to the Massachusetts Department of Workforce Development, this grant is operated by the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County. The funds being released will be used toward training and support services to be offered in conjunction with other services workers are receiving in the form of Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits to prepare them for new employment.

On Nov. 23, 2010, the commonwealth was awarded a grant of up to $2,073,235, with $1,012,455 released initially. Today's increment brings the total funds awarded to date to $1,869,680. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the commonwealth 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/.