My card/bank does not support Apple Pay, can I still use the cash card somehow for transactions?

Maybe I am misunderstanding what you are talking about. If you set your Apple Cash as your default Apple Pay payment then you can use it at any store that accepts Apple Pay and Discover card. You can transfer money to other people and if you have a bank account you can transfer it. If your Apple Cash is locked or restricted you will have to go here to start the unlocking process - If your Apple Cash account is restricted or locked - Apple Support

If your bank decided to stop supporting Apple Pay you can switch banks.

You need an eligible debit card to set up Apple Cash.

Apple Pay participating banks in Canada, Latin America, and the United States - Apple Support

Why was Apple Pay changed? My bank debit card does not support Apple Pay. Up until this new policy that AP MUST be connected to a card, I was able to use it by connecting it to my bank account. I have nearly $500 on my Apple Pay which I cannot use in stores, transfer money to other’s, not transfer to my account. And to make this change before Christmas? I am so angry with Apple now.