Grant to help laid off workers at Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital in Rome

Published 11:15 am Wednesday, August 3, 2011

State Labor Commissioner Mark Butler said that the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) has received a $3.75 million National Emergency Grant (NEG) through the U.S. Department of Labor to provide training and support services to about 750 workers affected by the closure of Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital in Rome.  

The facility, a state-operated mental health hospital for developmentally disabled and mentally ill patients, is scheduled to close on Friday, Sept. 30.

“I want to thank Labor Secretary Hilda Solis for providing the grant that will help these workers with the training and support needed during this transitional period,” said Commissioner Butler.

The GDOL will provide job search workshops, career counseling, and other resources at the transition center. Some job seekers may also be eligible for occupational/skills training, on-the-job training, General Education Development (GED) preparation and testing, and supportive services such as child-care assistance, transportation assistance and meals while enrolled in full-time training.

“Although I am saddened by the closure of this great facility, through this grant many will receive the help and support they need,” said Dist. 13 State Rep. Katie Dempsey, of Rome. “I’m thankful to Commissioner Butler and the Georgia and U.S. Departments of Labor for the commitment and hard work provided to our community.”

Services are being provided at the hospital’s transition center at the Georgia Northwestern Technical College Continuing Education Building, 96 East Callahan St., Rome, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  Information may be obtained by calling the GDOL representative during hours of operation at (404) 783-5889.

Of the total grant, $1,120,427 will be released initially. The remainder of the grant will be made available as needed.