Gov. Chet Culver responded promptly to Winnebago Industries Inc.’s announcement of planned layoffs with assistance from Iowa Workforce Development. Culver’s goal is to mitigate any economic strains that the laid-off employees and their communities might experience.

“I have requested Iowa Workforce Development officials to use all available programs and resources to help those affected by this unfortunate event,” Culver stated in a press release.

Rapid response and re employment services have already been put into effect, and arrangements for further grants from the U.S. Department of Labor in the form of National Emergency Grants and/or Trade Adjustment Assistance have already been requested. More grants would allow affected employees to return to school and improve basic skills.