Gramps,
If I was one of your employees and you had gone to such lengths for me, I would come back, I would be thinking this guy has done all he could and must be someone that I would want to work for again.
I do not have any answer for your question, my point is your guys must know you're in a tough spot and should not be upset that you must let some go, you have done what you could, when times get better you will take them back.
Good Luck
Bob
