US Department of Labor announces $2.2 million grant to assist Missouri workers affected by Hostess layoffs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $2,183,749 National Emergency Grant for training and re-employment services to assist nearly 400 workers throughout Missouri affected by the closure of Hostess Brands Inc.

Most of the workers were employed at 39 work sites throughout Missouri; however, the grant also will serve Missouri residents employed at three locations in Kansas and one in Oklahoma. It may also assist workers leased to Hostess by other companies.

The grant, awarded to the Missouri Division of Workforce Development, will provide assistance to workers in conjunction with other benefits they will receive as a result of their eligibility for Trade Adjustment Assistance. Under this grant and the TAA program, affected workers will receive the training and support services they need to successfully find new jobs in their state. In February, the department certified approximately 18,000 workers laid off in 48 states from 864 Hostess company locations as eligible to apply for TAA benefits.

Of the $2,183,749 announced today, $1,257,671 will be released initially. Additional funding, up to the amount approved, will be made available as the state 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/.