State of Minnesota and school district employees who have been laid off are eligible for assistance from the Dislocated Worker Program, the Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development announced.

'This grant will make it possible for our former public-sector professionals to develop a ?plan b' for their life's career,' said DTED Commissioner Rebecca Yanisch. 'Individualized employment plans, further education and training, and support services will be options to consider to return to the workforce as quickly as possible.'

Former state workers and school district employees can learn more about Dislocated Worker Program services at their local Minnesota WorkForce Center. For the locations and hours of WorkForce Centers, go to: www.mnworkforcecenter.org/cgi-programs/wfc_groups

The Dislocated Worker Program, administered through the Workforce Development Division of DTED, assists workers in finding jobs as quickly as possible following a mass layoff or plant closing. Services provided to dislocated workers include: assessment, testing, job counseling, job development and job search; and classroom, on the job, basic skills, and literacy training. Support services, including assistance with paying health insurance, child care, transportation, and other emergency needs, may also be available.