Elmwood Park-based Soundview Paper Co., the manufacturer of Marcal paper products, issued a statement on Monday about the Marcal mill employees who lost their jobs due to a fire on Jan. 30.
The company said in a statement it has been engaged with the Governor’s office, the New Jersey Department of Labor, the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Congressman Pascrell, local officials and nonprofits to identify and secure financial and other assistance for its employees.
In regard to company operations:
- Aspects of the Soundview Paper Co./Marcal business will continue, primarily out of its Putney, Vermont location and will ship inventory from Elmwood Park;
- It is increasing operations at its Vermont location;
- A small number of employees will remain on payroll for an undetermined period, allowing the company to carry out services from Elmwood Park and assist in site assessment and recovery efforts.
In regard to work assistance:
- Those who have lost their jobs will be immediately eligible for state unemployment/displaced worker benefits;
- Marcal’s owner, Atlas Holdings, will provide to all team members $5,500 in transition aid and extend health care coverage through March 31;
- An employment opportunities website has been created and will be active on Feb. 5;
- St. Joseph’s Health will provide counseling services to assist all employees.
“Over the last five days, we have witnessed overwhelming support for Marcal and its people from our friends in the local community, throughout the State of New Jersey and beyond. We have been reminded what the Marcal sign has meant to so many; that this company was not only a trusted employer and an iconic business, but a symbol of New Jersey’s historic manufacturing legacy. We are appreciative for the outpouring of love and support which sustain all of us through this very difficult time,” Rob Baron, CEO and president of Soundview Paper Co., said.
