FLINT, MI --The U.S. Department of Labor announced up to $15 million in grants to help provide temporary jobs to assist with Flint's water crisis recovery.
Initially, $7.5 million under the National Dislocated Worker Grant program will be released to help fund various jobs including delivering water, water filters, replacement cartridges and lead-testing kits to Flint families. The funding will also provide career and training services.
City of Flint councilman Eric Mays says he is hopeful that the grant will help residents eventually become gainfully employed.
"Well, on the surface it sounds great," said Mays who has been advocating for employment for Flint residents. "I hope we can have direct input on it. Open and honest discussion when and if the grant is received. I look forward to working out the details on how it's applied to community."
The National Dislocated Worker Grant provides resources to states for unexpected events causing job losses. Officials say about 400 temporary jobs will be created through the grant.
"National Dislocated Worker Grants are an important why that the federal government can assist workers, business and entire communities as they recover from crisis," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez in a March 23 press release. "The investment announced today will help the people of Flint repair the physical damage and care for their neighbor, while also helping put area works back on track to sustainable careers in and around the community they love."
The press release also said additional funding up to the $15 million may be made available as Michigan shows a need for financial assistance.