Rapid Respose Session Scheduled for Workers Affected by Closing of Augusta Friendly's Bookmark and Share

April 17, 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 11, 2019

Media Contact: Jessica Picard, Maine Department of Labor, 530-2065, or jessica.l.picard@maine.gov

AUGUSTA -- Maine Department of Labor has scheduled a Rapid Response session for workers affected by the closing of Friendly's at 48 Western Ave., Augusta on April 8. Workers who have lost their jobs may be eligible to collect unemployment insurance and for additional services.

"We are sorry to hear about the employees of the Friendlys in Augusta," Commissioner Laura Fortman said. We are here to help, and encourage those affected to attend our Rapid Response session. We will have staff there that can provide a wide range of support and services, help workers identify future career options, as well as answer any questions.

Rapid Response offers information about health insurance options and re-employment assistance, in addition to answering questions about unemployment benefits. The session for affected employees is scheduled for:

  • Wednesday, April 17, at 9 a.m. at the Augusta CareerCenter, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta

The Department of Labor can advise and assist employers and employees with information about their rights, responsibilities and obligations during a closure or downsizing to safeguard the economic stability of workers and the surrounding community. To find out more about the Rapid Response program, contact your local CareerCenter.

Affected employees with questions about unpaid wages can contact the Maine Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division at 623-7900.

The Bureau of Employment Services provides a variety of employment and training services for Maine workers, businesses and jobseekers through the Maine CareerCenter network. Learn more at www.mainecareercenter.gov.

Maine Department of Labor and Maine CareerCenters are equal opportunity providers. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.