Department of Workforce Development

		Scott McCallum     Governor State of Wisconsin

Thursday,  June 20, 2002
Contact:	Tim Roby, Governor’s Office (608) 266-8110 Chris Marschman, Department of Workforce Development, (608) 261-6705

GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES FEDERAL AID 
FOR WISCONSIN WORKERS

Madison – Gov. Scott McCallum announced today that dislocated workers in north-central and east- central Wisconsin will have access to $2,774,124 in National Emergency Grant (NEG) money to help them find new jobs.

"Despite recent positive economic news, some Wisconsin workers are still facing struggles getting back into the workforce, especially in our state’s northern counties," Gov. McCallum said. "President Bush and Labor Secretary Elaine Chao deserve our thanks and praise for their efforts in assisting the workers of Wisconsin."

The grants could help more than a thousand dislocated workers in Wisconsin’s northern counties, which have suffered significant setbacks in their job markets as a result of last year’s economic downturn.

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development requested the funds to provide assessment, case management, training, job development, placement and supportive services such as relocation assistance, transportation and child care.

Last month, workers in northwestern Wisconsin received a similar National Emergency Grant for $303,580.

Dislocated workers in north-central Wisconsin interested in learning more can contact the North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board at (715) 422-4716. Those from the east-central area can contact the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board at (920) 720-5600.

# # #