Happy Valentines Day!  Have you ever asked yourself why our income is taken from us in the form of federal taxes and then sent back to our state to help us with our local problems?

The U.S. Department of Labor announced a $4,883,709 grant to assist about 1,000 workers affected by layoffs and closures at 21 companies in multiple industries, including three auto suppliers, located throughout Kentucky.

"Layoffs are traumatic events, but the Department of Labor can help workers get back on their feet. We are committed to getting Americans back to work," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "I am pleased that with the support of today's national emergency grant, workers across the Bluegrass State will have the opportunity to pursue the employment and training activities they need to access good jobs in growing industries."

Awarded to the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, this grant will be operated by the following agencies: Bluegrass Area Development District, Cumberland Workforce Investment Area, Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program Inc., KentuckianaWorks, Lincoln Trail Workforce Investment Area, Northern Kentucky Area Development District and TENCO Workforce Investment Area.

A number of the workers covered by this grant also are certified as eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance. Those eligible for TAA will receive "wrap-around" and supportive services — such as dependent care and transportation assistance — through the grant. Those workers who are not eligible for TAA will have access to the full array of training and employment-related services available under the grant.

Of the $4,883,709 announced, $3,589,595 will be released initially. Additional funding up to the amount approved will be made available as the commonwealth demonstrates a continued need for assistance.