I worked as a Mason for many years and with one company for 14 years before I moved.
I remember one winter we were really slow and most of the crew was living paycheck to paycheck. The company owner gave us odd jobs to do to help us get by until things picked up again. He had me go to our warehouse and move plank and scaffolding from one side to the other. Another guy did some landscaping around his house and so on. He kept us busy because he cared and it was within his means to be able to do so.
Now here's the important part. Everyone on the crew was VERY appreciative of what the owner did for us and none of us would have found fault in him if he had to let some or all of us go. We would have understood given the situation.
You care for your crew and I'm sure they know that. They all know the current economic situation and will not find fault in you because it's NOT YOUR FAULT. You've done your best and that's all anyone can ask of a person. They will understand.
Keep your head up, keep that door of opportunity open and be there for whatever tomorrow brings.
