US Department of Labor announces grant to assist Wisconsin workers affected by manufacturing layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,055,188 grant to assist about 755 workers affected by the closure of four companies in Wisconsin's manufacturing sector: Joerns Healthcare Inc. of Stevens Point, SNE Enterprises Inc. of Mosinee, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. of Two Rivers, and Wausau Paper Printing and Writing LLC of Brokaw. The layoffs began in December 2011 and will continue through December 2012.

"The federal grant announced today will provide crucial job training and placement services to dislocated Wisconsin workers," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "This assistance will help qualify and connect these workers with jobs in growing local industries."

Awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, the grant will be operated by the Bay Area Workforce Development Board Inc. and the North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board Inc.

The grant will provide re-employment assistance to many workers in conjunction with services provided as a result of their eligibility for Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits, including career counseling, job search assistance and training, and supportive services such as child care and transportation. The full array of employment-related services allowable under a National Emergency Grant will be available to workers who are not eligible for TAA.

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/.