In Western North Carolina, a substantial grant from the U.S. Department of Labor has been a lifeline for over 50 dislocated workers. Southwestern Commission Workforce Development Director David Garrett is keen on spreading the word that they are actively seeking to assist even more individuals in need.

“We have another 15 months or so, or longer than that, to help somebody if their training goes past that. We’re going to have to start thinking of how we’re going to fund that if it goes past that time,” Garrett emphasized during an October 2nd meeting in response to Haywood County Commissioner Jennifer Best.

The funding, totaling $2 million initially with the possibility of an additional $4 million depending on demand, is set to expire on May 31, 2025. It is aimed at dislocated workers not just from Pactiv Evergreen but from any enterprise across several counties in Western North Carolina. The goal is to provide training and educational opportunities up to an associate degree level.

What sets this grant apart is its inclusivity. It caters not only to salaried or hourly workers but also extends to self-employed individuals, contractors, and even family members dependent on the income of dislocated workers. This assistance is particularly valuable for those who had to take lesser-paying jobs or endure longer commutes as a stopgap measure.

The available funding covers a wide array of career tracks, including industrial and building trades, professional occupations, and medical or health fields. Managed by a consortium of well-known Western North Carolina nonprofits, the funding aims to bridge the skills gap for dislocated workers and enable smooth transitions to employment.

One notable aspect of the grant is that employers looking to hire dislocated workers can benefit as well. The funding can be utilized to offset a significant portion of new hire wages, encouraging local employers to hire from this pool of trained individuals.

Since its initiation in July, the program has already assisted 53 people, the majority being former employees of the Pactiv Evergreen paper mill in Canton. The mill’s closure in June affected about a thousand workers directly, prompting the urgent need for assistance.

While the exact impact of the mill’s closure on the local economy is difficult to quantify, unemployment rates have remained relatively stable in the region. The assistance provided by this grant has undoubtedly been instrumental in supporting workers during this transition.

The efforts of the Southwestern Commission and its partners have been recognized and commended by local officials for their swift and ongoing response to the Pactiv Evergreen crisis. The grant’s focus on skill development and employment opportunities is vital for the affected individuals and the broader community.

If you’re a dislocated worker, a family member, or an employer seeking assistance or resources, the National Dislocated Worker Grant for Western North Carolina offers potential solutions. Administered by key organizations in the region, this grant opens doors for those seeking to rebuild their careers and lives.

For more information and to determine your eligibility for assistance, visit https://wncdislocatedworkergrant.com. Take the first step towards achieving your goals and securing a brighter future.