The answer was that one should have Dropbox if they need to share data. Does this include text and other files that I want to share with a non family member? Can I share files with ICloud alone if the other person has a different iCloud account?
You can share iCloud files with non-family members. See the following: Share files and folders in iCloud Drive on iCloud.com - Apple Support
and
Share files and folders in iCloud Drive on iPhone - Apple Support
You can share iCloud files with non-family members. See the following: Share files and folders in iCloud Drive on iCloud.com - Apple Support
and
Share files and folders in iCloud Drive on iPhone - Apple Support
Dropbox v Icloud
