#employeeassistance

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to support journalists who recently lost their positions. The GoFundMe aims to provide financial assistance to those affected by layoffs at the Idaho Statesman. Many of these journalists were reportedly earning below a living wage. The fundraiser seeks to help them manage while they search for new employment opportunities. Donations are being directed to the impacted individuals.

Boise, Idaho

https://www.kivitv.com/news/gofundme-raises-thousands-for-idaho-statesman-journalists-after-layoffs

I know we all freaked out when we received the letter from Optum Financial with the COBRA info, but I want to make sure everyone understands that is NOT our out of pocket premium.
Here is what you need to do (I just did it):

• either mail the form in or, following the instructions on the letter, go online to complete the registration (I think it’s best and safer doing it online).
  Use the Registration ID they provided on the letter.
  Once registered, accept the terms. Make sure to save a PDF of your acceptance. DO NOT PAY!
  What will happen next: they will notify CNC that you accepted the terms. CNC will then send COBRA the subsidy information. Once they receive that they will update your record with the amount that is due by October 1st. This amount should be around the same as you had deducted from the 9/11 paycheck (it was doubled so it covered for the month of September). It takes between 7-10 business days, from the day you accept the terms, for this process to complete (that’s why I suggest doing it online).
  You will receive a letter from Optum with your update premium then, but about you can always go back to your account online to check on the updated premium.

I called them a few minutes ago and the CSR asked me if I could share all this with my colleagues as they are getting tons of call for the same reason/concern.

Just wanted to have a clean thread to calm your hearts (I would have had a heart attack had I had to pay $1,700 a month)! ☺️

There are some specific steps to take that might be beneficial to some of us on here:

1. If you still have floating holiday, use it ASAP
2. Check if your state requires payment of PTO. If you don’t take it, it may disappear
3. Be sure your manager is aware of any protected status you have. That may positively impact your severance
4. Know the cost of COBRA
5. Build the relationships that will be valuable to you if you’re laid off - references, networks for future jobs, and future business contacts are invaluable. Personal phone numbers and email addresses are crucial
6. Build those LinkedIn connections now, before a layoff
7. Do NOT do anything the company might consider crossing a line of taking confidential information. I’ll let you figure out how to navigate that!
8. Any health or ancillary benefits that you want to take advantage of, do it NOW. The year is wrapping up quickly anyhow.
9. Max out your 401k if you’ve got the ability
   10, Make sure you have the HR number and any benefits numbers or addresses.
10. Get your information out there on LinkedIn and other sites, and keep your status as “Open to Work”. It’s easier to get a job when you have a job, or so the saying goes.
11. Keep your head up, don’t doomscroll on this site, and try to avoid too much gossip with coworkers - Optum is just a paycheck, not the meaning of our lives.

I hope this helps - it’s a partial list, and others might have additions etc.

How many have experienced racist managers in Tech? Seems like it seems to be very prevalent. HR aware of this?

Frito-Lay, a subsidiary of PepsiCo, is laying off 65 warehouse employees at its Raleigh distribution center. The affected workers will officially be let go on September 6th. The company cited challenges from health-conscious consumers and increased GLP-1 usage as contributing factors. While warehouse operations are being outsourced to an unnamed provider, the distribution center itself will remain operational. Frito-Lay will assist impacted employees in seeking roles with the new logistics company.

Raleigh, North Carolina

https://www.newsobserver.com/news/business/article316511862.html

Spirit Airlines has permanently closed its operations, resulting in the layoff of nearly 1,000 employees in Las Vegas. The airline cited sustained deterioration in business conditions and rising fuel costs as primary reasons for its closure. Despite efforts to secure capital, the company did not receive additional operational funding from the U.S. government and its lenders. This decision impacts flight attendants, first officers, and captains at Harry Reid International Airport. The airline is assisting affected employees with travel arrangements home and has advised them to avoid wearing uniforms for safety.

Las Vegas, Nevada

https://www.ktnv.com/news/nearly-1-000-employees-laid-off-in-las-vegas-following-spirit-airlines-end

FedEx is closing two facilities in Southern California, impacting 116 employees. This is part of a larger initiative to merge delivery networks and save $2 billion. Staples and LAZ Parking also announced significant job cuts. These layoffs affect hundreds of workers across the region. The company is offering support to affected employees.

Palm Springs, Victorville, La Mirada, Sacramento, Perris, Los Angeles, Ontario

https://finance.yahoo.com/economy/articles/fedex-others-announce-layoffs-southern-100000850.html

Just one more opportunity to AEOI please! - Mike, ELT and HR are you listening? If most of us knew how bad it was going to be we would have put our hands up right away. Some of us need the cushion before making our next move.

https://www.reddit.com/r/IBM_Employees/s/CM48XXGtsN

Between the brain fog, fatigue and confidence taking a hit, did anyone feel HR or management quietly decided you were “past your prime”? Did you tell HR, or did you keep it to yourself? Curious if anyone’s been through this.

I will start by saying I dont advocate, like, support, or agree with su----e.

But I also want to say that in my 19 years at T-Mobile since covid, I have worked through management lying to us non stop. I've seen multiple people talked into staying at T-Mobile, told their positions were safe only to get laid off and immediately go home and end their lives.

It's not a pretty thing, but decisions like the ones t-mobile has made, have caused a lot of people to end it. I hope leaders understand that.

It is wrong to replace hardworking citizens with outside control. Someone should report to the department of labor to track the lay offs by the immigration status, nationality, number of contractors recruited, internal promotions by nationality etc.
It's sad that one of the prestigious bank in the USA is controlled by the outsiders.
Please report the fraudulent activities and unethical hiring practices to the government agencies.

Well Att did it. They turned my phone off. Worked for them for 34 years. When I retired in 1993 I think it was. They said free Ld and phone for the rest of your life. Well guess what I’m still alive. They lied

Was curious about how effective they are. If you don't mind sharing, that would helpful.

Did anyone get an email just now from the state offering a webinar to support FDS employees that were laid off? Is it legit?

Layoffs will commence at the Times Fiber facility in Pittsylvania County by the end of August. The plant is scheduled to cease operations entirely on October 31st. Local officials are collaborating with state resources and the company to assist affected employees. The primary focus is on connecting displaced workers with job opportunities and career support services. The specific reasons behind the business decision to close the plant have not been publicly disclosed.

Pittsylvania County, Virginia

https://wset.com/news/local/layoffs-to-start-in-late-august-at-times-fiber-plant-in-pittsylvania-county-virginia-rapid-response-team-july-2026

Nebraska Department of Labor hosted a Rapid Response session for Tyson employees facing upcoming layoffs. The event aimed to inform workers about available unemployment benefits and re-employment services. Presenters also discussed important topics like healthcare and financial support. Assistance was offered in multiple languages to accommodate all attendees. The department encourages affected individuals to utilize these resources.

Lexington, Nebraska

https://ruralradio.com/krvn/news/lexington-workers-experiencing-layoff-attend-rapid-response-layoff-services-event/

A prominent technology company has announced significant job reductions impacting its workforce. This decision comes as part of a broader restructuring effort within the organization. The company aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency in response to current market conditions. Employees affected by the layoffs are being offered support services. Further details regarding the scale of the cuts are expected to be released soon.

https://www.polygon.com/xbox-cuts-layoffs-too-big-not-to-fail/

The Pioneer Valley region is experiencing multiple corporate layoffs impacting hundreds of workers. Coca-Cola laid off 175 employees in Northampton, with departures scheduled through November. Smithfield Packaged Meats Corp. cut 190 jobs at its Springfield plant, with some workers leaving by September. Innovative Care Partners released 70 staff members across three locations after losing significant funding. The MassHire Rapid Response team is actively providing support services to these affected individuals. The state has applied for a National Dislocated Worker Grant to help fund these assistance programs.

Springfield, MA

https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/rash-layoffs-masshire-rapid-response-012924192.html

RAISE US launched as a non-profit to retrain US workers. It aims to address job displacement caused by AI-related cuts. The organization secured $500 million in private and philanthropic capital. OpenAI, Anthropic, and Amazon are among its financial backers. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo co-chairs the new initiative.

https://www.thestack.technology/ai-layoffs-soaring-non-profit-retrain-workers/

South Dakota's labor secretary believes Artificial Intelligence can help the state's workforce. The state faces a longstanding challenge with a very low unemployment rate. AI may streamline operations and allow workers more time. The DLR prepares workers through reskilling and upskilling programs. No AI-related layoffs have occurred in South Dakota as of May 15.

https://www.sdpb.org/business-economics/2026-06-16/state-labor-official-believes-ai-could-help-south-dakota-workforce-challenges

Does anyone know how many full time employees we have in the US? How many per group? VCG, CMO, VBG, etc

If you have not been offered voluntary separation package how likely is it you would get it if you wanted and requested it ?? >30 years in at ford .

If granted - are there any stipulations ?

Then he laid off 25k Call Center employees, many were black. AI is real but its being used as a tool to outsource.

Do you maybe know what's the best way to do this for us that were let go this year?

I know I'll have to get it next year but since logins do not work not sure what other options I may have.

I know I can reach to HR and find out but I hate doing this as they tend to be terse and are slow to respond.

Asante is implementing a workforce reduction affecting approximately 250 employees. The initial round of layoffs is taking place this week. Rogue Workforce Partnership is organizing support services for these impacted workers. They are hosting Rapid Response sessions and a job fair in Medford, Oregon. These events will connect workers with resources for unemployment, health coverage, and career training.

Medford, Oregon

https://www.kdrv.com/news/local/rogue-workforce-partnership-supporting-affected-asante-workers-after-layoffs/article_0774695c-8d86-4380-97ea-cfb4ed1fc985.html

Teradata used to pride themselves on work life balance and of caring about employees and families. We have always pushed people hard at least in the teams where I have worked but there was also concern for your well-being. The leadership has changed this culture completely. Now you are never doing enough. Never working enough hours. Never using AI enough. Is this to weed people out?

PNC Financial Services announced nearly 1,000 job eliminations. These cuts are linked to its acquisition of FirstBank. Colorado credit unions criticized the layoffs. They launched a virtual job resource center for affected employees. The GoWest Credit Union Association coordinates this support effort.

Denver, Colorado

https://www.cutoday.info/Fresh-Today/Colorado-Credit-Unions-Launch-Hiring-Effort-After-PNC-Layoffs-Hit-FirstBank-Employees

Wells Fargo has made it clear moms have no place working here. Which is fine - we’ll just find jobs that allow us to be the primary parent and pick our kids up before dark. I can’t wait to get out.

How much premium i would end up paying for me, wife and 3 kids if I elect COBRA. Is such a family option available ? How long we can continue COBRA ? Appreciate your inputs.

Attitude, Resilience, Persistence, Demeanor, Flexibility, Volunteer, Practice your stories, Follow-up, Send thank you notes and much more. I got let go, it took me 10 months to get a new job. Take advantage of LLH career resources, take as many classes as you can. Different career counselors provide their point of view and take things with a grain of salt. Do not let age stop you from moving ahead.

Physical exercise has taught me:
• Discipline when motivation fades
• Resilience when the miles get tough
• Balance when life pulls in many directions

Get your Doctor appointments - full evaluation, Refill medicines, Surgeries if any.
Complete your ARAG / Will or Trust settings if possible
Get a free financial analysis

Vancouver Public Schools began notifying employees of layoffs last week. These reductions follow the school board's approval of $24 million in budget cuts. The cuts are intended to stabilize the district's budget for the 2026-27 school year. Staffing reductions form a significant part of this financial plan. The district also offers support services, including free counseling, to affected staff.

https://www.kptv.com/2026/03/26/vancouver-schools-begin-layoffs-after-board-approves-24m-budget-cuts/

Has anyone navigated approval of temporary disability or paid leave for toxic workplace issues such as harassment?

The U.S. Department of Labor awarded a grant to the Nebraska Department of Labor. This grant totals $1,671,239 for employment and training services. It assists individuals affected by the Tyson Foods Inc. plant closure. Tyson Foods closed its beef processing plant in Lexington, Nebraska. This closure resulted in 3,200 worker layoffs.

Lexington, Nebraska

https://www.beefmagazine.com/market-news/dol-awards-1-6m-in-assistance-after-tyson-beef-plant-layoffs

I had been extremely worried about the five day return to office due to my medical conditions. My manager told me I had to go through ERIC, so a couple weeks ago I reached out to them. I was sent a form that I had to have my doctor complete. Once the completed form was received, I was contacted to have a meeting with an human resources representative. After that conversation, they schedule a meeting with your manager to discuss a modified schedule.

I must tell you that this process has been very easy so far. The reason I am posting this is because if you have a medical condition supported by your doctor and you need to limit your days in the office, it’s very much worth your time to contact ERIC and put in the request. If you’re someone that just wants to work from home because you don’t want to come in, that is not going to be a valid reason based on the form that your doctor has to complete.

I have been worried sick about this whole situation and I was really put at ease during this process. I just wanted to put this positive information out for others who are employees that may be concerned. I hope this information helps someone.

Deep cleansing breaths, people. What kind of tools is everyone using to manage stress? I understand the need to go straight to sarcasm, but seriously asking. Focusing on supporting colleagues helps, it's always been about the people. Keep an eye out for who needs support, but might not ask for it. That can more challenging for remote workers, but do send out a message if someone goes quiet.

Panduit Corp. is laying off 178 employees from its DeKalb warehouse facility. These workforce reductions are part of a planned move of operations to Indiana. The company announced this relocation in 2024. The layoffs are expected to be complete by the end of March. Panduit is committed to supporting affected employees with various assistance.

https://www.shawlocal.com/daily-chronicle/2026/02/20/panduit-corp-manufacturing-warehouse-in-dekalb-to-layoff-178-employees-report-says/

McDowell Technical Community College is offering services to displaced workers. This initiative responds to recent layoffs at Baxter Healthcare. About 90 employees in McDowell County were affected. The college provides career guidance, skill upgrades, and financial assistance. Services include resume development, interview preparation, and short-term training.

https://mcdowellnews.com/news/local/education/article_79348e52-8d4e-4182-9153-fc2a7db50fbb.html

John Nolte’s first and last novel, Borrowed Time, is winning five-star raves from everyday readers.

If you want to know why the corporate media has lost all touch with common sense and reality, take a good look at the a--holes hired by the Washington Post.

A national newspaper actually hired (and then fired) people who literally believe they are entitled to work at the Washington Post. The Washington Post hired people who literally believe they have a right to work at the Washington Post. The Washington Post hires people who literally believe it is illegal to fire them.

“When they came to work this morning — to continue the jobs they were hired to do — they were blocked from entering the building,” writes the Washington Post employees’ union. “Our members are still employees. We are in Status Quo, which means that these layoffs are illegal.”

Doesn’t it all make sense now?

This is the mindset of the people the Washington Post hired to report the news to us, and they are all so twisted, immature, and spoiled that they are publicly proclaiming (without any embarrassment) that the Post has no legal right to let them go.

Why would a national newspaper allow this mindset into its newsroom?

“Last night after working hours, our members who are being targeted for layoffs by the Washington Post were locked out of their work devices, platforms, and the Post building,” complained the union.

Yes, that’s what happens after you lose your job. Some of us have discovered we’ve been let go by trying to sign in to work, only to discover our password has been revoked.

But my overall point is this…

These are the lunatics who hold the wheel in the corporate media. We’re not talking about differences over how high the minimum wage should be, tax rates, or abortion. We’re dealing with narcissistic sociopaths who believe they are entitled to a job at the Washington Post. Where do you begin to find common ground and a shared culture with people who honestly believe that kind of madness?

Even Communists don’t go this far. I spent years educating myself on the Soviet Union, and I can’t recall anyone ever saying they had a legal right to work for Pravda, or anywhere for that matter.

It’s scary enough to discover that our failed education system is pumping out people like this. But that a major newspaper would allow them over the wall and into the newsroom says everything about why the corporate media is broken and will never reform.