Grant to assist Idaho workers affected by the sale of potato processing operation announced by US Labor Department

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $366,087 National Emergency Grant to provide re-employment services to approximately 50 workers affected by the sale of Nonpareil Farms' dehydrated potato processing operation in Blackfoot, Idaho.

"This grant will help these workers get the necessary skills they need to re-enter the workforce," said acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training Eric M. Seleznow.

Awarded to the Idaho Department of Labor, the grant will provide these dislocated workers with career guidance, case management, intensive services, job search support, on-the-job training and other skills training opportunities, relocation assistance, and English as a Second Language classes.

In February 2013, Nonpareil Farms announced that it would be selling its dehydrated potato processing operation in Blackfoot to focus on its fresh produce brand. The first layoffs occurred on Feb. 22, 2013, affecting 93 workers. An additional round of layoffs occurred in May 2013, bringing the total number of affected workers to 130.

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 www.doleta.gov/NEG/.