Gee, if I didn't know any better I'd say you've described living conditions in a banana republic.....good thing we live in this wonderful democracy of ours.
Have you ever known a family who literally lives hand to mouth everyday of the week. They do live under conditions that aren't much different than those in a banana republic.
Thankfully, I have never been that poor but I have helped a few who were. My requirement was to be an American citizen....neighbors 1st!