My sympathies, Joeman. I understand the shock and distress that causes. While so far lucky enough not to go through a layoff and actually lose a job, I was in the raffle, so to say, for 9 years straight and running, 10% layoff each year. The turmoil of such changes your life style to say the least. Companies are always glad when you buy something like a car. It means you're going to be there a while. It is not a consideration when it comes time to save money and lay people off. The bills don't go away, just the means to take care of them.
It is nice to have sellable skills, it is a pain in the backside to have to go and play salesman again to obtain another means of income. Ever consider being your own boss? Either through consultant or developing your own business. It might be something to consider at this time.
Good luck, Joeman.