EL PASO, Texas -- The El Paso chapter of the American Red Cross has had to help more families than it budgeted for, and now has a $40,000 deficit.

The agency is turning to the community for help.

“I said, ‘This wouldn't happen to me, I only see it on TV. It wouldn't happen to me.,’” said Elpidia Alonzo, of the Lower Valley, whose home burned down in August 2007.

A malfunctioning pickup truck in her car porch caused the explosion that left her with nothing more than the clothes on her back.

“And the first people there were the firemen, and the next people there was the Red Cross,” said Alonzo.

The Red Cross gave her a place to stay for a week, and gave her money for food and clothing until she could get back on her feet.

Since 2004, the Red Cross has found itself helping more families every year because there have been more incidents.

“Our historical average was for one fire a week. Now, we're seeing two or three a week,” said Mark Matthys, with the Red Cross.

This week alone, the nonprofit agency has assisted six families whose homes have burned down, including one in San Elizario Wednesday morning.

Matthys said they spend anywhere from $800 to $1,200 per family. The money pays for the first month’s rent or building supplies, along with clothing and food.

“We've actually given out more than $130,000, versus our budget of $65,000,” said Matthys.

However, without more donations, the agency will be forced to cut some of its services. It’s already cutting down on overtime and is no longer providing families with bedding.

Alonzo encourages anyone considering to make a charitable donation to make it to the Red Cross.

“This is something that when it happens, you don't know when it's going to hit you,” said Alonzo.

To donate to the Red Cross, log on to redcrosselpaso.org, call (915) 592-0208, or send a check to 3620 Admiral Street.