DDEC to assist 81 workers displaced by layoffs
By The Star Staff
In light of the announcement of the closing of Kmart in Plaza Las Américas and Bed, Bath & Beyond in Plaza del Sol, Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC by its Spanish acronym) Secretary Manuel Cidre Miranda announced Thursday that the Labor Development Program (PDL by its Spanish initials) would activate the support and orientation services of the State Unit for Displaced Workers and Employers.
“The closing of a workplace is a process of great economic and emotional impact, not only for the affected workers but also the community at large,” Cidre Miranda said. “For this purpose, under the WIOA [Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act] … all employees will be offered rapid response services immediately to assist them in this job transition period.”
The PDL will hold an orientation event for the 60 affected Kmart employees on Friday, Oct. 28, at Kmart in Plaza Las Américas, San Juan, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The activity will include the participation of the Local Labor Development Area of San Juan, the island Department of Labor and Human Resources, the Department of Health, the Family Department and psychological support personnel.
Likewise, on Nov. 16 and Nov. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the PDL will hold another orientation event for the 21 displaced workers after the closing of Bed, Bath & Beyond in Plaza del Sol. The support service of the aforementioned government agencies will be available at that event as well. In addition, psychological support services will be provided free of charge.
Some of the services offered through rapid response are an orientation on services available under the WIOA, orientation on available government assistance, workshops, information on and referrals to employment opportunities, an orientation on how to conduct compelling job interviews, and information on training opportunities, among others.
“Through the different programs and services of the Labor Development Program, DDEC offers affected workers all the necessary support during this process,” Cidre Miranda said.
More information can be obtained by writing to rapidresponse@ddec.pr.gov.