US Department of Labor provides grant to assist Rhode Island with recovery efforts following Hurricane Sandy

WASHINGTON – Continuing support of state and local partners in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy, the U.S. Department of Labor approved a $1.5 million National Emergency Grant to assist Rhode Island with cleanup and recovery efforts.

"Hurricane Sandy unleashed incredible winds and rainfall that affected many lives in Rhode Island," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "As directed by President Obama, the Labor Department has expedited funding in order to offer state and local partners immediate support for their storm recovery efforts."

Awarded to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, the funds will help restore public lands and infrastructure by providing temporary jobs for those in need of employment. Of the $1.5 million announced today, $500,000 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 Nov. 3, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared Bristol, Newport and Washington counties to be eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance Program. More information on designated disaster areas in Rhode Island is available from FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/disaster/4089/affected-counties.

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/