No way, is it the county maybe? I had no issues at all a few years ago when I needed it one winter, I was approved before the end of the day.

You mentioned it was stories that drew you away. I would call anyway if you haven't yourself. These programs can be a hassle but I would suggest you start throwing darts at the board and see what sticks. Getting a SNAP card will still help you catch up on your utilities.

The Compass website makes this fairly easy, and yes: that change was recent. Within the last year I'd say. When I used it I had to call, it was so easy I still remember the person's name because it stood at that much, it was Lisa. She took a run through all the programs under Compass that I could apply for in basically one go without having to call different organizations and departments myself. By the end of the day I knew the results for about 90% of my applications, got some and didn't get others but it didn't matter because the strain on my total finances was lifted enough.

So there's a positive one for you. If that ends up not being your experience I'm sorry, but do please try.