Federal Grant Supports Displaced Workers in Cedar Springs

News Summary

A newly awarded $1.8 million federal grant aims to assist workers impacted by the closure of the Georgia-Pacific containerboard mill in Cedar Springs. Over 500 employees have been affected, and the grant will provide essential resources and services for job placement and training. Administered by the Technical College System of Georgia, the funding will span three years to aid the local economy’s recovery. Eligible workers from specific counties in Southwest Georgia can access personalized support to navigate their employment challenges.

Cedar Springs, Georgia – A newly awarded $1.8 million federal grant is set to support workers displaced by the closure of the Georgia-Pacific containerboard manufacturing mill in Cedar Springs, which has affected over 500 employees. This funding is intended to provide resources and services to help these individuals find new employment opportunities as they navigate the challenges posed by the closure.

The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment Recovery Dislocated Worker Grant (DWG) program and will be administered by the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) through its Office of Workforce Development. This funding is aimed at assisting local economies in their recovery after significant layoffs and business closures, with a specific focus on reemployment efforts.

The $1.8 million grant is structured to span across three years and will be utilized through WorkSource Southwest Georgia, which manages various federal workforce development programs in the region. This initiative is essential in providing displaced workers with essential training and support tailored to the changing job market needs.

Workers who were laid off from Georgia-Pacific, either directly or indirectly, will be eligible for assistance through this grant. To qualify, they must reside in specific counties within Southwest Georgia, including Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, or Worth.

Support Services for Affected Workers

The resources supported by this grant are designed to be life-changing for those impacted by the mill’s closure. A variety of services will be offered, including personalized education and training, career counseling, and opportunities for retraining in high-demand industries. This comprehensive approach aims to equip workers with the necessary skills to succeed in a competitive labor market.

Additionally, participants may have the opportunity to engage in work-based learning experiences such as apprenticeships, further enhancing their employability. WorkSource Southwest Georgia aims to provide a robust range of support services, encompassing job placement assistance, targeted training programs, and career development tools specifically designed for displaced workers.

How to Access Services

Individuals affected by the Georgia-Pacific closure interested in accessing the available services are encouraged to reach out to the nearest WorkSource Georgia offices located in Albany, Thomasville, and Moultrie. These offices can provide application assistance and further information on the resources and support available through the DWG grant.

The Impact of the Georgia-Pacific Closure

The Georgia-Pacific closure, announced in May, has undoubtedly created a significant void in the local economic landscape, impacting over 500 employees and their families. The mill was an essential employer in Cedar Springs and the surrounding areas, and the loss of jobs poses broader implications for the local community and economy.

As recovery efforts begin, the federal grant aimed at providing assistance to displaced workers will play a critical role. By facilitating access to education and job placement resources, this initiative aims to bolster the immediate and long-term economic recovery of Southwest Georgia, serving not only the affected individuals but also the community as a whole.

In conclusion, the $1.8 million federal grant represents a vital step in addressing the challenges faced by those impacted by the Georgia-Pacific closure, helping to pave the way for new employment opportunities and supporting local economic revitalization efforts.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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