Grant money from the Job Council is helping laid-off workers in Jackson and Josephine Counties get back in the work force.

Also helping is funding from a National Emergency Grant designed to help those laid off from 14 companies in the two counties during specific dates between October 2008 and February 2009.

"We applied for the grant in early 2009, but we didn't hear we got it until November," [said Katie Cole of the Job Council]. "Some people have returned to work. One thing I've heard from some clients is, 'This is great, but where were you eight months ago?'"

Companies on the list are Asante Health System, the White City plant of Boise Cascade, Ashland Community Hospital, Certainteed Siding, Cascade Wood Products, Erickson Air Crane, Circuit City, Hach Analytics, Linen & Things, Johnny Cat Construction, Panel Products, Pro Tool Darex, Qwest Communications and Swanson Lumber.

Read the full story at the Mail Tribune.