US Department of Labor grants $3m to assist Minnesota cleanup

The US Department of Labor has announced a $3m (£1.47m) grant to Minnesota, with an initial release of $1m, to create approximately 300 temporary jobs to assist in the cleanup and recovery efforts taking place as a result of recent flash flooding.

US Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao said: "This $3 million grant will create nearly 300 temporary jobs for Minnesotans to help in the cleanup and reconstruction of their communities due to the recent flash flooding. In addition, these funds may also be for job training for workers who have lost jobs due to the flash floods and need new job opportunities."

On August 23, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared the counties of Fillmore, Houston and Winona eligible for FEMA's Public Assistance program as a result of heavy rains that caused flash floods in those areas. On August 24, FEMA amended the declaration to add the counties of Olmstead, Steele and Wabasha.

The grant, awarded to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, will be used to create temporary jobs to assist in projects related to cleanup, demolition, repair, renovation and reconstruction of structures and areas affected by flooding.