I have cleaned the inlet hoses and filters. The washer turns on and makes a noise as if it is trying to fill with water but nothing is filling into the tub. There are 9 of us in this house so we DESPERATELY need to fix it as quickly and as cheaply as possible.

Are you sure you have water to the fill valve? If so, sounds like your solenoid on the fill valve is not opening. Remove the back of the washing machine and where the water hoses go into the machine is a fill valve. Some have filters in them. If you see what looks like a bump or small raised disc, with the water off, take the fill valve apart and see if it is plugged. If not, put it back together, turn on the water, set the washer to wash and gently tap the valve with a plastic hammer or screwdriver end. If it clicks and water flows, you have a sticking or bad valve. If it doesn't open, replace the valve, not very expensive and easy to do. Brian