Best advice for my situation

I have recently resigned from a position and now I am in a financial bind so to speak. When I took the job, my employer paid for three years of training up front (approximately $8,000) and now they want me to repay them. I was not given a specific timeline or amount to start paying back right away. The employer took my last two checks at applying about 1,000 off the top. Now, what would be the best course of action to pay this off? I do not wish to use my credit card or savings because it would leave me in even more debt. I have other financial responsibilities to think about. I am also in the process of trying to secure another position at this time.

In the past, my family and I have helped my husband. How do I get him to understand that he really needs to start stepping up and helping me through this very stressful portion of my life?

I am not down emotionally with the things that have gone on. As a matter of fact, I am taking proactive steps to secure myself as a potential employee with a great talent in my field. I am also trying to secure my financial future the best way I know how.

I hope I will find some info here – https://www.usa.gov/retirement, stil any help and suggestions would truly be appreciated.