Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the U.S. Department of Labor has released over $24 million in National Emergency Grant Funds to assist clean-up and recovery efforts in American Samoa.

 "I want to personally thank my good friend and former colleague, U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, for releasing more than $24 million in National Emergency Grant funds to help American Samoa rebuild," Faleomavaega said.  "The people of American Samoa are deeply appreciative of the support we are receiving from the federal government in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami that struck our islands on September 29, and I thank the Obama Administration, the U.S. Congress, FEMA, Secretary Solis, and all others for standing with us as we begin the long and difficult process of rebuilding our homes and lives."

 “I also want to thank Senator Inouye and Senator Akaka for their unwavering support.  Earlier today, we released a joint statement applauding Secretary Solis’ decision to release more than $24 million in aid and, during these trying times, I want to thank both Senators for their heartfelt words and condolences.”

“With the outpouring of prayers being offered in our behalf, I have every confidence that American Samoa will rebuild but we will never be the same without the ones we have lost.  This is why I continue to convey my condolences to the families and friends who have lost loved ones, and pledge to do all I can as we work to recover.” 

The full text of the U.S. Department of Labor's notification, which was sent to Faleomavaega, Senator Inouye, Senator Akaka, and to members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), of which Faleomavaega serves as Vice-Chair, is included below:

NOTIFICATION
 
Dear Faleomavaega/ Inouye/ Akaka staff and CAPAC,
 
Attached is a release announcing a $24,857,608 National Emergency Grant award from the US Department of Labor to assist clean-up and recovery efforts in the wake of a tsunami that struck American Samoa on Sept. 29.
 
This grant is for clean-up and recovery from a natural disaster. National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor’s discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state’s ability to meet specific guidelines.  For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG.