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OPA News Release: [11/19/2003]
Contact Name: Ed
Frank
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676
Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao Announces $12 Million for
Disaster Aid in Wake of California Wildfires
Grant Will Be Used to Create Temporary Jobs for
Cleanup, Restoration
WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today
announced a National Emergency Grant totaling $12 million to create 750
temporary jobs for cleanup and restoration efforts in areas in Southern
California devastated by wildfires that began in October. An initial amount of
$4 million will be released immediately to aid Ventura, Los Angeles, San
Bernardino and San Diego counties.
“The President and I want to do everything we can to help those
whose lives were affected by the devastating wildfires,” said U.S.
Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. “This $12 million grant will create 750
temporary jobs for unemployed workers who will help in cleanup and restoration
for the people, businesses, and communities of California.”
Individuals eligible to participate in the disaster-related temporary
jobs creation program include those who have been dislocated from their jobs as
a result of the disaster, the long-term unemployed, and other eligible
dislocated workers. The temporary jobs created by this grant will be used to
provide disaster-related assistance in the four counties declared eligible for
public assistance by the Federal Emergency Management System (FEMA).
The grant will fund projects that provide food, clothing, shelter, and
other humanitarian aid to victims of the wildfires. Funds will also be used to
repair and reconstruct businesses and facilities located within the disaster
areas. In addition to temporary jobs, participants will be provided supportive
services, including job-related transportation, work equipment, emergency
medical assistance and child care.
National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary’s discretionary
fund. A grant is awarded after a state submits a request and the grant
guidelines have been met.
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