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Workforce Training Program for Gulf Coast Workers Receives New Funding from Department of Commerce

July 19, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $200,000 grant to the St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation in Chalmette, La., to fund a study for creating and implementing workforce training in St. Bernard, Plaquemines, and Orleans parishes.

"The Obama administration is committed to helping those who have been affected by the BP oil spill," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This grant is one small part of the effort to train workers for new job opportunities in the Gulf Coast region."

"This EDA grant will support assistance to Louisiana fishermen affected by the BP oil spill by identifying business opportunities that leverage their specialized skills and knowledge garnered over generations," said Rebecca Martin, Executive Director of the St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation. "Their unique heritage represents a historically significant segment of Louisiana's economy and this project recognizes the need to keep fishermen employed close to the natural resources to which they are so closely identified."

This EDA investment will help St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation design and implement a training program for workers in the fishing, boating, and industries who were displaced as a result of the BP oil spill. It will also assist the St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation in supporting businesses in retaining workers or with the potential capability to absorb displaced workers.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov): This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.