Washington - Today, U.S. Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) announced that the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development will receive more than $1.9 million in federal funds to help struggling families stay in the workforce. The federal funds will be used to help Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients achieve sound and gainful employment.

"These federals funds will help families struggling in this economy who want to get back on their feet and stay employed," said Sen. Menendez. "This type of workforce investment can help ease the pain of this economy, end the poverty cycle and provide the exact type of assistance needed for families to rise above the poverty line. These funds will help equip New Jerseyans with the skills and training needed to remain in the workforce and put food on the table for their families."

"It is critical that we give workers the resources they need to maintain employment and advance in their fields," Sen. Lautenberg said. "With the price of gas, food and health care rising every day, these funds will help New Jerseyans pay for these basic necessities. We must do all we can to protect our families from choosing between filling their gas tanks or filling their stomachs."

The Department of Labor has awarded $17.5 million nationwide to various State Workforce Agencies for dislocated worker demonstration projects. The New Jersey Department of Labor, located in Trenton, will use the funds to secure entry level positions held by former TANF recipients and help them enter or advance within high-growth industries.

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