Most of what you're saying is wrong.

1) Most open source projects are supported by communities of volunteers. As is StartOS, for free, in community support channels which you can still use. And where you should be volunteering if you feel strongly about this.

2) Tech support for customers of Start9 is still free, as it was before, included with the purchase of a product.

3) There was never free support to DIY users, just volunteer support, which still exists. 

4) Start9 can't sell an OS license because StartOS is free and open source and isn't owned by Start9, but by everyone.

5) There's "no one time use SOL" situation... If someone loses their redemption code, they can just email and ask for a new one.

You sound frightened and confused by falsehoods that you're inventing in your own head that have no bearing on reality.