Coats and scarves are all Guadalupe and his wife Socorro Lechuga have to keep warm.
“She has to put more covers on us and that helps it to stay warm," Guadalupe said.
But when the rain starts—Guadalupe told Action 4 News they have a whole new set of issues to deal with.
"When it rains a lot the tarp that we use for a roof can't hold it all and it falls inside our trailer and then we get drenched with water."
It is something the Lechuga’s have learned to live with.
But it has not been easy.
They have made some risky decisions in the past that could put their lives in danger---just to stay warm.
"He's asked me to make a fire inside the house to make a fire,” Socorro explained. “But I've heard how that is very dangerous. Any little spark that lands on the wood can create a fire."
Just beyond their small trailer home is their dream.
It is a place they hope to complete in the future—if only they could find the money to finish it up.
"We need wood to cover the areas that aren't covered,” Guadalupe said motioning to the home. “Lumber is the most important thing we need right now."
Yvette Salinas has been working with the Lechuga’s for several months.
She said they have been able to round up lumber for the family—but that is it.
"We've been able to get wood and nails for them...just the basic necessities,” Salinas said. “Since we recently changed offices we got permission from the City of Alton to get different materials from our old office to give to them."
To help the Lechuga family you can call (956) 787-2233.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKGBT