Maria Rivera, laid off from the Camden (N.J.) Police Department, fears financially for her child in college and her 10-year-old. "If God's willing," she seeks recall, but: "I'm a single mom. I have to provide for my children, so I'm not turning down any offers either. If something good appears, I will never close the door."

Rivera's updated and circulated her résumé, but is "taking it day by day."

As many on unemployment are waiting to be recalled, their pressing question is—cue the Clash—should I stay or should I go now?

Says Summit County, Ohio's John Rimedio: "Do I want to come back, and if and when I get my job back, how long will I have it?" While he's evaluating, he landed a job managing Homeland Security grants for law enforcement agencies in Ohio's region 5. This pays the bills as he takes care of his 76-year-old dad.

"The job is good, and while it's not more money, it's helping in some way. I feel I landed on my feet and am very fortunate and thankful," Rimedio says. His ultimate goal, though, is to be on the street serving.

Does Rimedio have advice for others who got the boot?

"Hang in there. Don't give up. If your heart and soul is in law enforcement, stick with it. You'll know when it's time to give up and move on … There are agencies that are hiring. If you gotta work at McDonald's for now, do it. No one will think you're less of a man or woman. They'll just think it's what you gotta do for now. Something good comes out of everything."

Related:

Officer Layoffs: Getting a Pink Slip

Officer Layoffs: Assistance from Your Former Agency

Layoffs and Reality