To those losing their jobs, I am truly sorry you are being trampled on by this company. It is a reflection on the management of this company and not on you. Having been through this 2 times and now a 3rd, here is what I have seen happen.
- If given a severance package, make sure it specifically states when you will receive your payment. They will probably tell you it will arrive at some point during the covered time. Make sure it has an expected date in writing. I know a couple people who waited several weeks to get their payment the last time around. They forced the company's hand by filing for unemployment and received benefits, on top of their delayed severance check, until they found a new job.
- Contact your local unemployment office now! There may be a waiting period, a back log of claims, and red tape to get through.
- Document everything management tells you. Keep a journal with what they said and the time and date they said it. It may seem trivial at the time, but if you have to file for unemployment, it will help greatly. Save every e-mail you get as well. They are counting on you to just roll over and take it, don't let them!
Beyond that, leave this company in the rearview mirror and find something that makes you happy.