DWD Secretary Allen Voices Optimism to Support Wisconsinites Impacted By Closure of Kimberly-Clark Plants in Fox Valley

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MADISON – Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Ray Allen today announced steps that DWD and its regional workforce partners are taking to assist workers following news that Kimberly-Clark plans to close two plants in Neenah and Fox Crossing over the next 18 months.

"We have contacted our regional workforce partners to prepare Rapid Response services that help affected workers find new, good-paying jobs," Secretary Allen said. "We want the workers to know that the labor market outlook is bright, our reemployment services produce results, and we are ready to support the workers and their families in any way we can."

Secretary Allen announced the following steps:

• DWD is working with its regional workforce partners to mobilize a Rapid Response Team to reach out to the employer and meet with affected workers. The team will schedule orientation sessions to provide workers with information about reemployment services, Unemployment Insurance, and pre-layoff workshops on a variety of topics such as resume writing and interviewing, job search strategies, and budgeting.

• DWD will work with regional partners to identify employers across the region who are seeking talent with the skills that affected workers have, and help facilitate connections to fill job openings with qualified applicants.

• Secretary Allen encourages affected workers to contact their local Job Center to inquire about services by visiting www.JobCenterofWisconsin.com/directory or calling 1-888-258-9966.

Rapid Response services are part of the DWD-administered Dislocated Worker Program, which serves workers who become dislocated when a business cuts positions or ceases operations entirely. The goal is to support affected workers and their families, and help workers find work at new jobs that pay as well or better than their previous employment.

For more information about the Dislocated Worker Program, visit: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dislocatedworker/