RICEBORO, Ga. () — It has been almost a month since over 1,000 employees were impacted by the closure of the International Paper Mill and Liberty County is working to help those still in search of jobs.

This job fair was in direct response to the closure of the paper mill. Businesses came out to the area of the Riceboro mill to allow people who wanted to stay in the area of their previous employment find their next opportunity.

“I couldn’t even tell you all the people I know who made their living at this mill,” CEO of the Liberty County Development Authority Brynn Gran said. “I grew up here and it transformed lives. This plant put food on people’s tables. It sent kids to college. It really transformation economically to this community over decades. It’s very emotional for a lot of people and I’m hopeful they will find new opportunities.”

Joseph Mitchell was one of many who came out to the job fair who was also impacted by the shutdown of the mill.

“It has affected me directly, IP owns our company,” Mitchell said. “I have a DS Smith logo shirt on. We were actually purchased by International Paper just running under this name. We are now closing down on October the 20th permanently.”

Organizers of the job fair said around 75% of the people who walked through the doors were affected by the closure.

This job fair was designed for workers effect by the IP closure but was open to anyone who was seeking a new opportunity.

This event was just one of many in the area that is meant to help combat the closure of the mill. Liberty County Development Authority said they will continue to support the community during this time while many are experience job displacement.