SOUTHERN ILLINOIS COUNTIES RECEIVE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR GRANT TO HELP WITH DISASTER RECOVERY EFFORTS

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (IDCEO) has received a $2,000,000 National Emergency Grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The funds will be distributed to 21 Southern Illinois counties, including Alexander, Franklin, Jackson, Perry, Pulaski, Randolph, Union and Williamson in the 12th Congressional District, to create about 115 temporary jobs for eligible dislocated workers to assist with clean-up and recovery efforts as a result of recent flooding and high water in the region.

Temporary jobs created under this grant will be in public or private non-profit agencies. Eligible individuals who are interested in applying may contact Jill Meseke from IDCEO at 217-558-2425.

"This is good news for our region and I will continue to work to ensure that residents understand what disaster recovery resources are available," said Costello. "These funds will help people in our area get back on their feet and recover, and I will continue to support these efforts."