Lay off's in job market

Everyone knows that in America, its a hire-fire policy as far as the job market is concerned.
Now the economy is nor doing too well,and people are losing their jobs, and job security has drastically come down.

Just last week, 30 people were laid off from Red Cross, due to organization re-structuring. I came to know that there weren't sufficient funds, and by laying off 30 people, the red cross was able to save up to $ 1 million. Two whole departments have been disbanded,and 7 new positions were created in the re-structuring...It was so hard on the people.

The Friday before the news broke,an employee party was held,and one of them actually received an award for her good work in reaching out, and making partnerships for the Red Cross. Come Monday, she is one of the 30 people who have been laid off!!!! It was tough luck...

Those who had been laid off, continued to be on the payroll till 31st December, and were given reference letters to apply elsewhere. Some of the more emotionally affected were sent for psychological counselling. The CEO held a meeting, in which he quoted statistics saying that 41% less people had decided to contribute to non profit organizations than last year. I thought Americans were very community oriented people...they begin volunteering at a very young age, and teach their kids to do so too, and donate generously....however, they are also like us, i guess...I mezn, Indians aren't too much into volunteering, donating etc, apart from religious causes.

Well, any thoughts on this???????