Resource fair set for Lucky Friday workers

COEUR d'ALENE - Those with resources to help workers affected by the closure of the Lucky Friday mine in Mullan will be on hand during a community resource fair Jan. 19 in Wallace.

"This is an opportunity for these hundreds of workers and their families to meet with people who can help them deal with the personal and family setbacks the unexpected shutdown is and will have on them," said Sara Lamson, the Idaho Department of Labor's Silver Valley office supervisor.

The closure could reduce income in the Silver Valley by more than $13 million if it lasts for a year.

The resource fair runs from 2:30 to 5 p.m. in the commons at the Wallace Junior/Senior High School, 1 Miners Alley, in Wallace.

Department of Labor consultants can determine eligibility for special training programs and help people with their job and career searches, interviewing skills and resume development.

Officials from North Idaho College will be available to answer questions about education and training opportunities, and representative from the Panhandle State Bank can offer help with financial issues.

Also participating will be the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, the Community Action Program, the Shoshone County Free Health Clinic and other community agencies that can help families through difficult times like this.

Additional information on the resource fair is available by calling Lamson at (208) 783-1202 ext. 3553.