Battery Dead problems of the 1999 Ford Contour

The dash on my 1999 Ford Contour gl began peeling away more than two years ago. Despite receiving a recall letter from Ford about the problem, I was unable to have it replaced/repaired. About the same time, I started having problems with the radio cutting out. I could push in a cassette then remove it to get the radio to come back on, but nothing else would work. Just yesterday I drove my car with no problem. . . Until I turned off the ignition. When I attempted to restart the car, I was unable to do so. When I turn the key to the first stop, the accessory position, the radio, lights, etc. , all work fine. When I turn the key further, to start the car or to the second stop to power other devices (ac, power windows, etc), it behaves as if the battery is dead. The buzzer (door open, keys in ignition) is very faint, radio doesn't work, windshield wipers move one very slow pass (even though they are turned off), can't get the car out of "park". I had the car towed home, but can't afford to have it checked out. Will call the dealership, but am not hopeful of getting the car fixed.