The Tennessee Dept. of Labor and Workforce Development reports the loss of 126 jobs in this week's notices.

Pfizer is laying off 117 workers between 6/30 and 8/31 at its Monroe Co. logistics center in Vonore. Previous news reports said the company is outsourcing the work to an Ohio company.

The Knox Co. office of the Tennessee Child Care Resource and Referral agency reports they are eliminating nine positions next month. An official would not comment on the layoffs or what programs and services would be affected. The program, which provides child care worker training and family referral services, is operated by UT and funded by the state. The cuts appear related to the state legislature's recent Tennessee Dept. of Children's Services budget cuts* (see update).

UPDATE: *An official from the Tennessee Child Care Resource and Referral Agency got back to us with more information.

The staff reductions are a result of cuts in federal funding for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. Tennessee Child Care Resources and Referral will continue all existing programs and continue to fulfill state contracts but with a reduced staffing level.

Their full statement about the changes after the break...

Statement from TN CCR&R:

Changes Coming To the Tennessee Child Care Resource and Referral Network

Beginning July 1, 2011 you will see changes at your local CCR&R. We will still offer these same great quality services that you have come to expect:

1. Free TN-CCPT Training
2. Technical Assistance
3. Targeted Technical Assistance
4. Lending Library
5. PSAM Services
6. Infant and Toddler Caregiver Support
7. Strengthening Families
8. Parent Referrals
9. Parents Know Kids Grow Parent Information Network.

The heart of our work will continue to center around providing you with the support you need to be successful in caring for Tennessee’s children.

However, due to reduced funding for 2011-2012 you will notice the following:

• Fewer CCR&R staff
• Limited TNCCPT Workshops
• Longer wait time for on-site assistance
• PSAM Purchasing Grants will no longer be available

We are committed to making 2011-2012 the best year ever by using our resources wisely. Here’s how you can help...

• Attend the workshops you are registered for or call to cancel if you can’t come.
• Be available to keep your on-site appointments.
• Plan ahead to take advantage of services when they are offered near you.

One more way you can help: You are invited to share your email address with the local CCR&R so you can personally receive the TN-CCPT training calendar and regional newsletter. The July – September TNCCPT calendar and newsletter will be the last one that is printed and mailed. After that you may receive the TNCCPT Calendar and newsletter by email or by going to either the TNCCR&R website ((link...)) or our East CCR&R website ((link...)).

You can share your email address in three ways:

• Go to (link...) now!
• Sign the email list when you attend an East CCR&R TNCCPT workshop.
• Call the East CCR&R office at 865-974-7750 or toll-free, 877-584-0596.

We are looking forward to working with you this coming year!