Kansas governor Laura Kelly said she has started work to coordinate efforts of state agencies to respond to the layoffs announced at Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita.

The company has announced plans to lay off 2,800 workers starting January 22nd, in response to Boeing’s suspension of production on the troubled 737 MAX jetliner.  Spirit made fuselages for the plane.

The governor said she has asked state labor secretary Delia Garcia to coordinate the state’s available resources to help affected workers and businesses.  She said “I’ve been in constant communication with local, state and federal officials as the state prepares to assist Spirit, its workers and affected businesses in the supply chain.  I have directed an all-hands-on-deck approach across state government to help workers, Spirit and other Kansas businesses that will be negatively impacted connect with every available resource, and with an emphasis on long-term support. We stand in lockstep with the workers and companies affected.”

Sedgwick County commissioners issued a statement saying that public and private partners will be working together to help aviation workers and their families.

The Salvation Army in Wichita also issued a statement saying that the agency will be flexible and will serve families “where they need us the most.”

Kansas senator Jerry Moran says the layoffs have dealt a harsh blow to Spirit and its suppliers and subcontractors.  Moran said he has talked with Boeing’s new CEO and with FAA officials to urge them to work together to do everything necessary to get the 737 MAX back in the air.  He said he will work with business leaders and officials in Washington to make sure this is a short-term impact to the aviation and aerospace industry in Wichita.