US Department of Labor awards $1M to support Northern Mariana Islands residents affected by Super Typhoon Sinlaku

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the award of $1 million in grant funding to support disaster-relief jobs and employment and training services for residents of the Northern Mariana Islands in response to the severe impacts of Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

Beginning April 11 and continuing through April 18, 2026, Super Typhoon Sinlaku, a Category 5 storm, caused widespread devastation throughout the Northern Mariana Islands, including Rota, Saipan, and Tinian. The storm severely damaged residential property, public infrastructure, and utility systems. Many communities continue to experience disruptions in access to electrical power, potable water, and other essential services.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency issued a disaster declaration for the storm, enabling the territory to request federal assistance. This award will support recovery efforts throughout the Northern Mariana Islands, including Rota, Saipan, and Tinian.

This Disaster Recovery National Dislocated Worker Grant allows the territory to provide people with temporary jobs focused on cleanup and recovery efforts, as well as support employment and training services for eligible community members.

Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, National Dislocated Worker Grants provide a state or local board with funding for direct services and assistance in areas experiencing a major economic dislocation event that leads to workforce needs exceeding available resources.