The U.S. Department of Labor on December 9 announced a $2,601,207 grant to assist about 448 workers affected by the closure of the Chrysler Kenosha Engine Plant located in Kenosha, Wis.
"The Labor Department is committed to helping all workers who have lost jobs through no fault of their own – including those in the nation's auto communities," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Helping these workers in Wisconsin get back on a career path is good for working families, local communities and the economy as a whole. It makes sense and it's the right thing to do."
Awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, this grant will be operated by the Southeast Wisconsin Workforce Development Board. The grant will provide these dislocated workers, all of whom are also certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance, with access to "wrap-around" and other supportive services not available through the TAA program.
In August, Chrysler issued a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notice announcing the permanent closure of its engine manufacturing facility in Kenosha. The plant closed in October, ending more than 100 years of auto industry employment in the city.
Of the $2,601,207 announced on December 9, $1,207,576 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 awarded at the discretion of the secretary of labor based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.