$1M grant to assist Massachusetts workers affected
by the closure of Haemonetics awarded by US Labor Department

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $1,064,034 grant to assist approximately 148 workers affected by layoffs at Haemonetics Corp., located in Braintree, Massachusetts.

"Workers impacted by these layoffs will need assistance to gain suitable employment in new industries and occupations," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. "This federal grant we're awarding today will help these individuals by providing a full array of re-employment services, opening up paths to new careers."

This grant, awarded to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, will provide assistance to these workers in conjunction with the services they will receive due to their eligibility for Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits. All of the affected workers have been certified as eligible for TAA. This dual enrollment project will provide these workers with access to the full range of services — including career assessments, case management, job development and placement services — available for dislocated workers.

The Brockton Career Works and the South Shore Career Centers will manage the provision of re-employment services to the affected workers in the immediate vicinity of the Haemonetics plant. In addition to these locations, vouchers will be available to permit these individuals to access services at an American Job Center within close proximity to their homes.

Of the $1,064,034 announced today, $532,017 will be released initially. Additional funding, up to the amount approved, will be made available as the commonwealth 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.