Laid off--Support thread

[mum4jenn]

I've been reading this thread off and on and feeling so bad for everyone. It seems so unfair that you all can't find any jobs and yet in West Texas we can't find any people to hire. Employers here are so frustrated because you just can't find people to work. Our housing costs are very low, too. All over our city there are help wanted signs and offering incentives, like signing bonuses, full benefits, free gym memberships, etc. If there is any way for some of you to move to parts of the country that still have jobs and low housing and utility costs, it might help. But if you can't sell your home, I know it may be impossible. Anyway, I hope it all works out for you soon.

Come to think of it, this is how I got to Texas in 1974. My husband and I couldn't find work at all where we were and we heard there were jobs in TX and moved. Luckily, he found a job the first day we got there.

What kind of jobs are available?? I am a school lunchroom manager and still employed. DH works at a Tire plant and has been cut down to 2-3 days a week since Ike came through and ONE of the U.S. plants is going to close. That announcement will be in January. They are shut down for this week and two weeks in December with NO pay.

 

[jocotter]

There are jobs at all levels. We have lots of medical jobs, university and government related jobs, and then private industry jobs.

I will pm you a link so you can see an example. The pay may look lower than where you are, but our housing costs and utility costs are low.

 

[rach2674]

If I could afford to move and move my parents, I would go in a heartbeat, but we just moved to a rental house and then my dh lost his job. So we may be homeless soon because we only have enough rent for another month or possibly two.

I've been applying everywhere. I'm not sure what else to do. If it wasn't for food stamps, we wouldn't be able to afford rent. I think they may also have some type of job assistance, so I'm going to look into that tomorrow. I'll work anywhere I have to.

Rachel

 

[MRDUCKIE07]

I'm still looking for work myself. Seems like it might be after the holiday's before places start hiring again. It can be frustrating to say the least.

 

[T. Lynn]

Just wanted to check in & see how everyone was doing. I'm hoping everyone found jobs and that's why no one has been able to post.

Wishing the best of luck for everyone. Keep us posted!

 

[rach2674]

I actually did just get a job offer on Tuesday. I'm very excited. The pay is pretty good and also has the potential of bonuses. I don't start until January 5th, which actually works out good for me because I still have 2 weeks of school left.

Now I hope my husband can keep getting lots of shifts at his work even after Christmas.

Only thing that isn't so great about the new job is the hours. I'll only be able to see my 6 year old in the morning before school. I won't get home until after 9:15, which is when she goes to bed. I feel very guilty and she's gonna be very upset for a while, but we all just have to deal with it right now. I'm hoping I'll eventually get another shift down the road.

Good luck to everyone else. I hope things turn around soon!

Rachel

 

[deedee3]

I wish i had found this thread alot sooner. My heart goes out to all of you as I know where all of you are coming from. I lost my Job of 10 years last November, It moved to Mexico due to the company looking for ways to budget. We did get a lillte severance package, but not much. I am not sure if every state is the same, but I decided to go back to school full time(for free) and I am still getting benifits, kind of like an extension of my unemplyment. I think this has to do something with the company asking for some kind of government grant to help the people that were laid off. I hope this helps someone, it doesnt hurt to ask what kind of programs are out there.

Also I do have a question, someone said there are lots of Medical Jobs in Texas? What Areas? My family has been talking about relocating there, any help would be appreciated. Thank You

 

[Disneydreamer5]

I haven't had any luck so far. Some days I am out there looking on-line and reading the papers and other days I can't even bring myself to look anymore. Its a very defeating feeling somedays. As I am sure we all feel from time to time. I am just trying to stay positive and keep my head up.
Wishing everyone well and praying we all get some luck coming our way real soon.
Hang in there everyone!

 

[vicb]

I am so sorry to read everyone's stories. We too might be facing something similar. And truly, with the ripple effect on the economy, no one is truly safe except maybe nurses and doctors.

But I'm especially heartbroken about those in Detroit and the Big 3 automakers. I'm not associated at all with the industry except that I AM an American and truly SHUDDER to think what might happen to America with the ripple effect from their loss.
So much of our country's *industrial revolution* was created by the auto industry.
I know people don't think its important to *Buy American* because some foreign cars are made here. But other than employees incomes from the foreign plants - (certainly very important!) - the profits go back to Japan, Korea ect and not America.
We've sold out our techno industry (TVs, cameras, Sony, FUJI ect) - we can't afford to lose the auto industry. I don't know how America can survive without the Big 3. Capitalism only thrives on industry! There's not much that is made in America anymore
Its chilling to consider their loss and the ripple effect that will affect generations to come - our precious children and future grandchildren lives...

God bless you all in this situation, especially those in Detroit.

Thank you Mafibisha, this is well stated. I live in metro Detroit and my DH works for the big 3, it is a scary time. I am so angry that Wall St. got billions of dollars no questions asked and the big 3 have to beg for help and it doesn't look like they will get it. I really am sick of the posturing of our politicians. Banks are sitting on taxpayer bailout money while average americans can't get a loan for a car or home and can't get any help! Mostly I appreciate your comments on the importance of buying american, it is an investment in our own country during a difficult economic time.

 

[mafibisha]

Thank you Mafibisha, this is well stated. I live in metro Detroit and my DH works for the big 3, it is a scary time. I am so angry that Wall St. got billions of dollars no questions asked and the big 3 have to beg for help and it doesn't look like they will get it. I really am sick of the posturing of our politicians. Banks are sitting on taxpayer bailout money while average americans can't get a loan for a car or home and can't get any help! Mostly I appreciate your comments on the importance of buying american, it is an investment in our own country during a difficult economic time.

Yes, the whole thing is down right bone chilling.

What many / most don't realize is the *ripple effect* the loss of the Big 3 would have.

People don't realize that they themselves WILL be affected if the Big 3 go out of business!!! Can you say Depression, worse than 1929??

I never understood why more people didn't buy American in the first place (don't slam me people, I DO understand the issues with quality ect but that was yearsssss ago -- the quality is SOOO much better the last decade or two!!)

If the Big 3 aren't bailed out, we're ALL going to be in a heap of trouble.

(once again, we personally aren't in Detroit and we don't know anyone directly employed by the Big 3. Its the multitude of feeder-companies and the effect of literally millions of unemployed NOT buying basic products and also feeding off the US Gov't. that will be a final blow....)

Wishing everyone the best. Hang in there.

 

[Mrs.Reese]

Things continue to look pretty bad in my area. The local unemployment rate is 9.2%. The local school districts have a hiring freeze in place right now. Our governor refuses to actually do something. His response, it'll get better soon. I'm really disgusted with his lack of leadership. He reminds me of an ostrich burying his head in the sand to avoid danger. For some reason, I can't help but think of the carousel of progress's "Now is the time..." music.

I read an interesting article the other day about 8 things to not talk about right now. The comments people made were quite disheartening. Let's pray that things get better for all.

 

[fkj2]

I never understood why more people didn't buy American in the first place (don't slam me people, I DO understand the issues with quality ect but that was yearsssss ago -- the quality is SOOO much better the last decade or two!!)

If the Big 3 aren't bailed out, we're ALL going to be in a heap of trouble.

It was the "fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me" philosophy that keeps the consuming public from returning to American autos after they've owned a reliable foreign brand auto.

Background.

I owned an '87 Buick Somerset that I could have easily been injured in because it would stall out without any notice while slowing down to make turns. The power steering died, and it was a wonderful way to get rear ended. After multiple trips to the dealership for repairs, it finally ran out of the warranty and then I was supposed TO PAY to have it "fixed." My mom, whose other child is a GM worker, told me she didn't care what I bought but "get rid of this car." Bought a Honda Prelude that was absolutely a great vehicle.

I did go back to American in 1996 with a 4x4 Jeep, only because of the 4x4 that I don't think Honda offered at the time. My current Jeep Liberty developed a major expense 10 days after I'd sent in the last payment. Great. Well, it'll have to wait.

Although not totally in agreement with a bailout, I do think that since the Big Three, as well as the UAW, are demonstrating a little more willingness to make some sacrifices, they'll get at least a one-time cash infusion but they'd better step up and make the most of it, and make sure that EACH AND EVERY car that rolls off the line is good to go if they're to regain the public's trust and loyalty.

 

[snowman1035]

I get so depressed when all you hear is the government bailing out all these company! Why don't they government bail out the average person? We don't get to go on lavish vacations and fly in jets! Sorry just needed to vent. It just seems no matter how hard you try you can't get out of this rut! I just want to break and cry right now. The worst of it is the holidays - haven't even gone shopping for the kids! Then to top off my already bad day, a girl I work with wants us to give money towards a gift for our boss! Are you kidding! I am to the point where they can just come and take everything cause that is what is going to happen pretty soon. I can't rob Peter to pay Paul anymore!

 

[dnoyes]

I get so depressed when all you hear is the government bailing out all these company! Why don't they government bail out the average person? We don't get to go on lavish vacations and fly in jets! Sorry just needed to vent. It just seems no matter how hard you try you can't get out of this rut! I just want to break and cry right now. The worst of it is the holidays - haven't even gone shopping for the kids! Then to top off my already bad day, a girl I work with wants us to give money towards a gift for our boss! Are you kidding! I am to the point where they can just come and take everything cause that is what is going to happen pretty soon. I can't rob Peter to pay Paul anymore!

Hope things work out for you and your family. These are hard times we are living in right now. We will ALL make it .....

 

[fkj2]

It just seems no matter how hard you try you can't get out of this rut! I just want to break and cry right now. The worst of it is the holidays - haven't even gone shopping for the kids!

There's no doubt that the holidays--when we're all supposed to be jolly, happy, and generous--adds to the stress we're all feeling. I can't go anywhere or turn on the TV without hearing someone say, "Please donate to..."

What's so scary, at least for me, is that this is so different than any economic phenomenon that the country has gone through in my lifetime. (And I've been around for awhile.)

If there's any upshot to this, maybe it will force families to draw closer instead of pulling apart, and we'll remember what Christmas is supposed to mean. This year, it may not be about the presents that are wrapped under the tree, but about those we love around the tree.

 

[goofyforlife]

Just wanted to check in & see how everyone was doing. I'm hoping everyone found jobs and that's why no one has been able to post.

Funniest thing i heard all day...i wish.....

Hey at least we're not alone.... There's currently over 3 million other US citizens eligible to join our thread...

Banks are sitting on taxpayer bailout money while average americans can't get a loan for a car or home and can't get any help!

AMEN.... I have to keep calling my bank and calling and i'll get someone and then they only say they'll have to call me back (only to get no return calls)
I think that whole Fannie Mea help thing was a fantasy....

People don't realize that they themselves WILL be affected if the Big 3 go out of business!!!

My Dh and i are both in development related jobs.... We're already hosed. My job was lost. Partly my fault...partly because dept heads were looking to trim their budgets.. Everyone else is either letting people go, closing offices, or have a hiring freeze... DH's company is pretty much pulling a Titantic (ie sinking by the head and ready to split at any moment with NO LIFEBOATS).

 

[goofyforlife]

It just seems no matter how hard you try you can't get out of this rut! I just want to break and cry right now. The worst of it is the holidays - haven't even gone shopping for the kids!

My dd knows it's bad.... Luckily i know how to work CVS deals and got a bunch of free stuff for her stocking.

I have a couple cheap things i had stored away from earlier this year she doesn't know about too...

The worst thing for me this year is the bell ringers for SA. I mean i almost feel guilty for not putting $ in but then i think...Shoot we need that kettle this year. It's a shame to think that we can't afford our bills with only the one decent income but aren't eligible for any help either.

I suggest looking over on the CVS thread... once you get a hang of it... Some really great deals to be had which would help get a few things for the kids.

 

[MKCP5]

I was told Wednesday (my bday of course!) that I would still have a job but would be straight commission now. Yes, I have a job. But can I hold out long enough to make money? What I sell in Jan won't ship til Feb and I wont get paid til March. How do you live like that unless you have been for a while and are in the momentum of it? Worst is, it starts in 2 weeks. We're in a world of hurt. I just dont know what to do.

 

[vicb]

It was the "fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me" philosophy that keeps the consuming public from returning to American autos after they've owned a reliable foreign brand auto.

.

I'm sorry you had a bad experience with your two cars however any company can and does produce lemons. Our friends have had a miserable time with their subaru and my bro-in-law had a nightmare with his audi. He now drives a cadillac and couldn't be happier. It can happen to anyone.

The subject of buying american is very touchy and I don't want to stir up any trouble with my fellow dis'ers but I might suggest folks look at this list of the North American Car of the Year Awards (winners listed first then runners up), you will see plenty of quality american vehicles being recognized along with your toyotas and hondas.

[edit] 2000-2008
Year Car
2008
Chevrolet Malibu
Cadillac CTS
Honda Accord

Truck
Mazda CX-9
Chevy Tahoe Hybrid
Buick Enclave


2007
Saturn Aura
Toyota Camry
Honda Fit

Chevrolet Silverado
Ford Edge
Mazda CX-7


2006
Honda Civic
Ford Fusion
Pontiac Solstice

Honda Ridgeline
Ford Explorer
Nissan Xterra


2005
Chrysler 300
Chevrolet Corvette
Ford Mustang

Ford Escape
Ford Freestyle
Land Rover LR3


2004
Toyota Prius
Mazda RX-8
Cadillac XLR

Ford F-150
Nissan Titan
Cadillac SRX


2003
MINI Cooper
Infiniti G35
Nissan 350Z

Volvo XC90
Hummer H2
Honda Element
Nissan Murano


2002
Nissan Altima
Ford Thunderbird
Cadillac CTS

Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Chevrolet Avalanche
Jeep Liberty


2001
Chrysler PT Cruiser
Honda Insight
Toyota Prius

Acura MDX
Ford Escape
Toyota Sequoia


2000
Ford Focus
Audi TT
Lincoln LS

Nissan Xterra
Dodge Dakota
Toyota Tundra

 

[IMALOVNDISNEY]

I posted on this thread when it first started . I have to say that I haven't kept up with it because it was depressing to know that so many of us were facing the same issues. Just trying to keep up with our everyday bills and then adding T'Day and Christmas on top of that was just a little to much for me. My Dh was laid off the first week of Oct. and we lost our health insurance the same day.
Dh is a true believer that "all things happen for a reason" and "something good will come of this". He kept saying "we'll be ok". After 11 wks. of no job and tons of resumes out there it didn't seem ok to me. I was begining to get scared. My stockpiles were almost gone. Well I'm happy to say that Dh was right. We made it through the holidays and today he was offered a job that he really wanted. A little less $$ than he wanted, but, health premiums are 1/2 of his old job. Plus we get dental and optical. and the insurance is affective on the date of hire, and 2 wks vacation. So things have worked out for us. And my wish for the New Year is that it will work out for everyone else here on the Dis and through out the country.