Federal grant to help Pittsfield workers

WASHINGTON – The Department of Labor has released a $317,300 National Emergency Grant to help workers affected by the closure of San Antonio Shoe in Pittsfield, Maine, Democratic Rep. Michael Michaud announced Monday.

“National Emergency Grants are a vital lifeline to the people of Maine, and the announcement that funding has been released is very welcome news,” said Michaud, who represents the 2nd District. “This funding will help provide additional assistance to Maine workers who have been impacted by job loss and need expedited assistance. It will assist workers in their return to meaningful and productive employment.”

San Antonio Shoe, which made penny loafers and other styles in Pittsfield, announced earlier this year that it was closing its only Maine factory, causing the loss of about 145 jobs.

Services not covered under Trade Adjustment Assistance will be covered by the grant, including assessment, counseling, case management, job search, job placement and follow-up services. Geographic areas covered under the grant include Kennebec, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset and Waldo counties.

“The entire community of Pittsfield has been affected by these staggering job losses,” Republican Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins of Maine said in a joint statement. “The displaced workers of San Antonio Shoes now face an uncertain future through no fault of their own. We applaud the Department of Labor’s continued efforts to ensure that Maine receives every available resource to help these workers get back on their feet.”