The thing I'm most glad you posted out of all of this is the last paragraph. I don't think it matters what state you live in, or even if you live in the United States - the message that claiming benefits shouldn't be a source of shame or something you're embarrassed about is useful everywhere. There is no shame in asking for help from a system that taxes go into for just that reason - to help those in need when they can't work or can't earn enough to support themselves.