The U.S. Department of Labor announced Tuesday it is awarding nearly $1.1 million to assist Maine workers who were laid off last year from Biddeford Blankets Co. and Sebago Shoe Inc.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao said the emergency grant will help about 145 workers who are eligible for assistance.

The money will be used to pay for a variety of services such as adult education, occupational training, transportation assistance, medical assistance and child care.

The funds will be administered by the Maine Department of Labor, and an initial amount of $361,000 will be released immediately, officials said.