California Unemployment review: Overpayment penalties

Two years ago I started working part time at a women's retail store. I make minimum wage. Because I was part time I started to claim unemployment benefits. The first time I certified online as a part time claim there was a question I didn't know how to answer so I left blank. Because of this I was penalized for 17 weeks. I have set up a repayment schedule although I have very little money. I am a 73 year old homeless women.

In December of 2021 the retail store where I'd been working closed the store. Although I was transferred to another store I didn't restart working until Monday, Jan 25th 2022. So for an entire month I had NO income. My car payment will be late and I'll be penalities for being late will be applied. I have very little money for food and I have my adult son living with me that relies on me for shelter clothing and food.

In addition this month my rent payment almost doubled as did my utility payment. Why penalize someone when losing a job is penalty enough. Please help me.