US Department of Labor announces grant to assist workers laid off from Dunmore, Pa., facility

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $306,838 National Emergency Grant to provide re-employment services to approximately 150 workers affected by the closure of Ocean Logistics LLC's Dunmore, Pa., facility. Ocean Logistics LLC is a warehousing and distribution service for general merchandise as well as health and beauty items. The layoffs occurred in September and October 2011.

"Today's grant will provide these former Ocean Logistics workers with the re-employment and retraining services necessary to compete for new jobs in other industries," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Jane Oates. "This grant will provide crucial re-employment services to assist these workers find good jobs in high-growth occupations."

Awarded to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, the grant will be operated by the Lackawanna County Workforce Investment Board. The funds will be used to provide dislocated workers with services including skills assessments, basic and occupational skills training, and individual career counseling.

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/.