I was recently laid off from my job as a cashier/customer service representative at a local store, a position I had only started in February. I genuinely enjoyed the role and was under the impression that the last few months were a training period, after which I would receive a pay raise from $15 an hour, as I had been told during the hiring process. The only feedback I received was that I was a bit slow at organizing books, but my performance as a cashier was never criticized. I had just moved into a new studio apartment, which cost more than my previous place since I no longer had a roommate. The management was aware of my move and even assisted me during the transition. However, one Tuesday morning, I was called into the office by my manager and laid off on the spot. They were vague about the reasons, suggesting it was due to the store's economic situation rather than my performance. I later learned that another employee had been laid off just weeks before me. A few weeks prior to my layoff, I had a particularly rough day at work when I accidentally emptied the register while giving change. My manager reacted harshly, and I ended up crying in the break room, only to overhear them speaking negatively about me. This was painful, especially since I had defended them to my friends and family, believing they cared about me. Despite taking on extra shifts and having my previous manager acknowledge my contributions, I now feel like I was just used to handle the store's busy season. Initially, I thought my layoff was due to unfortunate circumstances, but when I received the layoff letter, which cited attendance and performance issues, I was shocked and felt betrayed. I have evidence of my hard work and the conversations where my manager expressed gratitude for my extra efforts. Now, I find myself struggling financially and mentally. I managed to get some commissions to cover a month's rent, but I'm facing an upcoming rent payment of $875 and have been unable to find a new job. My last paycheck was unprofessional, lacking proper tax deductions, which complicates my ability to apply for food stamps since I need documentation from my former employer, who has been unresponsive to my requests. This past month and a half has been incredibly challenging. I feel isolated and overwhelmed, with no family support as they are dealing with their own financial issues. I've had to reach out to friends for help, which adds to my stress. I just want to find stability again and feel like I'm in a never-ending cycle of disappointment. I've applied to numerous jobs but have either received no responses or have been ghosted after initial contact. I’m terrified of losing my apartment and just want to regain my happiness and stability.