Goshen family remains optimistic despite RV industry layoff

By Debra Daniel (daniel@wsbt.com)

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Steve Thompson was laid off from Sunnybrook RV

Steve Thompson was laid off from Sunnybrook RV in November 2008. He now has plans to get a degree in a field outside the RV industry. (WSBT photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Mar 19, 2009 at 3:38 PM EST

Story Updated: Mar 19, 2009 at 4:49 PM EST

GOSHEN — Steve Thompson now spends his days with his family. He helps his wife around the house, and picks up his sons from school.

"I know when the time comes and I do get a job, these guys are gonna miss me quite a bit," Thompson said.

Thompson worked at Sunnybrook RV for 5 years, had seniority, and says he was blindsided when he was laid off with dozens of others November 30.

"The first week was like shock, not knowing where to turn, what to do," Thompson said.

"He's the man of the house, you know, has all of us; he was getting worried, but I didn't want him to be so worried," Thompson's wife Annette explained.

But the father of three did start to worry when they lost their home and were forced to move in with friends.

"It's come down a couple of times to, 'Oh my gosh, I'm almost out of milk, almost out of eggs,' and then something would happen within hours,' Annette said.

When they found their new home, they were out of money. But Thompson got his unemployment card the day he had to pay the landlord.

"I was able to call him up and say, 'Hey I've got your money,' and I've been able to pay him money every week," Thompson said.

The Thompsons believe their faith has something to do with how things are falling into place. Thompson finally got a case worker to help him apply for a $6,000 RV grant. Now he's looking forward to a different future.

"My plan is to get into ITT Tech, Ivy Tech, get a degree and get out of the RV industry," Thompson said.

Like many families, their struggles are far from over. They say they have Medicaid for their children's health coverage, but will have to file for food stamps. But like others in their shoes, the one thing they're not doing is complaining.

"We've been making it, the Lord has been good and you know, we really have not suffered," Annette said.

Join us every Thursday at 6 p.m. as we introduce you to another family and show you how they're coping with unemployment. Here on WSBT.com you can read their stories, plus find resources to help you and your family, friends or neighbors.

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