US Department of Labor provides grant to assist recovery efforts in West Virginia following severe storms

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded a $514,800 National Emergency Grant to create temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist with cleanup and recovery efforts after severe storms, tornadoes, flooding, mudslides and landslides struck West Virginia in February and March.

"The storm-battered citizens of West Virginia need our help," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "The department's funding is part of the federal government's commitment to support the people of West Virginia as they rebuild their communities."

On March 16 and 22, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared a number of West Virginia counties eligible for its Public Assistance Program. Today's grant, awarded to Workforce West Virginia, will provide assistance to Harrison, Lincoln, Logan, Marion, Mingo, Taylor and Wayne counties. Additional counties may be included at a later date.

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/.