Congressman Kagen Welcomes Funding For Worker Education and Training

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 30, 2009

Contact:  Jake Rubin
(202) 225-5665
 

(APPLETON, WI) Congressman Steve Kagen, M.D. welcomed the release of funds from the American Recovery & Investment Act that will help displaced working people in northeast Wisconsin.

Grants totaling $3,974,709, including $1,821,617 available under the Recovery  Act, were  awarded to assist 4,900 workers affected by layoffs at 104 companies across Wisconsin, including Appleton Paper, Appleton Coated, Brillion Iron Works, Cummins, Hoffmaster, Mercury Marine, Miller Electric, New Page, Presto Products, ThyssenKrupp, Walker Forge, Wilson Hurd, Gulfstream, and Oshkosh B’Gosh.

“This is about jobs,” Dr. Kagen said.  “Working people in northeast Wisconsin are hurting and the American Reinvestment and Recovery act was enacted to help put people back to work.  Programs like these will go a long way toward helping working men and women get back on their feet.”

According to Cheryl Welch, CEO of the Fox Valley Office Workforce Development Board, the grant includes $446,400 of ARRA funds for Outagamie, Waupaca, Calumet, Fond du Lac, Winnebago, Waushara and Green Lake Counties.

“Fox Valley Workforce Development Board is excited to receive the ARRA Dislocated Worker funds provided by Congress, and to serve displaced workers in the Fox Valley,” Welch noted.  “These funds will provide additional training opportunities and work skills for those affected to prepare for their next job and career path.”

The funds will be used to help displaced workers get education and training, and help them make the most of new employment options.