Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

		TOMMY G. THOMPSON  Governor State of Wisconsin

For Immediate Release – Mar. 24, 2000
  
Contact: Rachel Biittner (608)266-8710

  
GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES $500,000 IN EMERGENCY FUNDS
Federal money will assist dislocated workers in Milwaukee area

MADISON – Gov. Tommy G. Thompson today announced the State of Wisconsin will receive $500,000 in emergency federal assistance to help 250 workers displaced by the closure of the U.S. Leather plant in Milwaukee.

"We’re delighted to hear the federal government is stepping forward to assist the State Department of Workforce Development in funding outreach services to displaced workers in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee and Washington counties.  The funding will go a long way toward assisting the state in providing job placement, training and education services," said Gov. Thompson.

The array of services the DWD provides to dislocated workers includes:

• Skill assessment and training
• Career counseling
• Job search and placement assistance
• Relocation assistance
• Retraining services, which include; literacy education, occupational skill training and 
  classroom or on-the-job training
• Supportive services, which include; transportation and childcare

Job training and placement services will be provided through the Milwaukee Private Industry Council.

"Any time there is a loss of jobs, there is an impact on the community.  We are working diligently to lessen that impact and ensure our families find new employment," said DWD Secretary Linda Stewart.

The State Department of Workforce Development made the emergency request for funding in a letter to the U.S. Department of Labor on Tuesday, Feb. 15.

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