While facing unemployment can be scary and challenging, Rustic Crust employees were given the tools to bridge the gap from losing their jobs over the last couple of weeks to when they settle into a new job.

Hosted by officials with several state agencies, the Rapid Response session, held at Pittsfield’s Town Hall Monday afternoon, encouraged the 16 former employees to file for unemployment as soon as they can, and told them to sign up for some other available resources.

“We can’t guarantee an outcome but we can guarantee an opportunity,” said Joe Doiron, director of workforce development at the Department of Business and Economic Affairs, one of the event’s hosts. Jorge Archundia, manager of Concord’s Office of Employment Security, and Jimmie Hinson, Rapid Response workforce development administrator, also co-hosted.

Dozens of Rustic Crust workers were laid off when the company abruptly closed roughly two weeks ago; some of the employees had been let go in the days and weeks prior to the shutdown. A letter to staff indicated they were being let go “due to economic and industry forces beyond our control.” Rustic Crust, located in Pittsfield, made pre-made pizza dough and other similar products that were sold at grocery stores including Market Basket, Hannaford, and Whole Foods. It was the town’s third-largest employer.

After filing for unemployment, state officials recommended joining the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Adult and Dislocated Worker program, which can provide up to $6,500 towards training and assist people with resume building, career advising, and education. 

Ann Philbrick worked at Rustic Crust for seven years, climbing the ranks from production to warehouse worker to lead to supervisor. Since being laid off, Philbrick has felt stressed trying to figure out her next move. She attended the session to gather additional support.

“I already have the unemployment paperwork filled out,” she said. “I’ve been through everything and have already logged onto job search sites.”

While navigating all the paperwork proved confusing at first, Philbrick figured it out.

“Today I learned about the job training possibility,” she added. “I’m looking for a career change but still want to stay close to home.”

Attendees were also encouraged to visit or call their local Office of Employment Security to get connected with resource centers that have computers with statewide job listings. There’s also staff on hand to navigate any questions.

The Department of Health and Human Services’s NH Easy program allows individuals to apply for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), cash assistance, Medicaid, Medicare savings, and child care. Those receiving Medicaid, SNAP, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) can also enroll in the WorkNowNH program for extra workforce support. The NH Bureau of Adult Education offers opportunities for people who might need additional qualifications or assistance as they search for a new job.

Philbrick says she could tell something was going on before the factory’s closures because of the growing number of layoffs and the increasingly empty shelves in the warehouse’s receiving area. She hopes a new company will move into the warehouse space that housed Rustic Crust.

“I’m less worried for myself and more worried for the people who worked under me,” Philbrick said. “I just want everyone to make it out okay.”

For more resources, visit the NH Works website at https://www.nheconomy.com/office-of-workforce-opportunity/nh-works.

Rachel Wachman can be reached at rwachman@cmonitor.com.