I'm so sorry to hear that. Keep looking and enlist the help of friends and family if you can. Also, if you have any pet shelters or Humane Society locations in the area, contact them and let them know you lost your cat. You'd be surprised how often people will drop lost cats at a local shelter...
Great resource list. I wasn't aware there were so many organizations. Another option is to see if you vet offers any special discount or wellness programs. The one I take my cats to has a plan where you pay a one time fee which is the equivalent of a rabies shot, and all shots are free for life...
Lots of great info. Your advice is spot on. I've found my cats adjust quickly when I've moved. I was always extra careful transporting them for fear they'd get loose. Even when I take them to the vet, I will get them safely in the car before opening the garage door.
Regular brushing also helps decrease the chance of hairballs. The more loose hair you can brush off, the less your cat will swallow. My cats liked to be brushed so they come and line up when I take out the Furminator which I've found to be the best one for removing hair. It costs a bit more, but...