US Department of Labor provides re-employment assistance for Texas workers affected by closure of Cargill Meat plant

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a National Emergency Grant of $2,066,314 to provide assistance to more than 320 workers affected by the closure of a Cargill Meat Solutions Corp., plant in Plainview, Texas. Awarded to the Texas Workforce Commission, the grant will make it possible for eligible dislocated workers to receive re-employment services.

"The Labor Department's funding will allow former Cargill workers to receive critical services and training that helps them obtain jobs in other growth industries in the area," said acting Secretary of Labor Seth D. Harris. "Skills are the leading edge of economic development for communities across the country, and this grant reflects our commitment to workforce investment."

Cargill filed a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification with the state on Jan. 17, 2013, indicating the plant would close immediately and displace 2,211 workers. The meat processing plant also provided workers with a notice of the closure.

Of the $2,066,314 announced today, $1,112,899 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. More information on these grants is available at: www.doleta.gov/NEG/.