I don't think anyone said that Breeze. I really don't think they meant anything that way. Most people, in fact, agree with what you are doing. I know I do. Being a mother is a very personal thing and you need to decide what you have to do. If you feel that asking for support may endanger your little girl, then stay the hell away from him and his money.
I am sure you will be a wonderful mother to your little girl. Father around or not. You are the one who has been around for her for the past couple of months while he is off somewhere doing who knows what.