More job hunting help and career assistance is available for the 613 former Northwest Airlines employees who lost their jobs after the merger with Delta. The state announced a $2.6 million federal grant that will give them "continued support" in finding new jobs.

The money comes from the seemingly endless 2009 federal stimulus act.

"Many laid-off workers need continued support as they look for work, even as we are seeing some signs of recovery in the state economic picture," said DEED Commissioner Dan McElroy. "This grant is a strong step forward toward helping affected individuals find a new job and get their career back on track."

Dakota-Scott Workforce Services is providing dislocated worker services through this grant. These services may include skills assessment, basic skills training, individual career counseling and occupational training.

Officials say any worker included in the NWA layoffs, but not yet enrolled in the Dislocated Worker Program, should contact Helene Woods, 651-554-5908 or e-mail helene.woods@co.dakota.mn.us/.