Here’s an example of the unfortunate fallout from these difficult economic times. This is the last thing we should allow to happen…

Planned layoffs are now under way at Heifer International, according to a company spokesman.

Heifer spokesperson Tina Hall confirmed that the first round of layoffs have begun and will continue on. Heifer announced earlier this year that layoffs were forthcoming and would be implemented by the end of June.

Hall said the layoffs would affect about 20 percent of Heifer’s U.S. work force of about 330 employees and that specifics concerning the Heifer locations affected by the layoffs would be released soon.

Based in Little Rock, Heifer is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating world hunger and poverty.

In these difficult economic times, charities are struggling more than ever to make ends meet and continue to do their critically important work to rid the world of disease, hunger, discrimination, animal cruelty and address other important issues we face. We just don’t have the extra cash to write the nice checks. Our bracelet campaign has helped make a difference, because it allows thousands and thousands of people to make just a small purchase and together, make a big difference!