2005 Chrysler 300

Air Conditioning problem
2005 Chrysler 300 V8 Two Wheel Drive Automatic

My air conditioning is not working and has been diagnosed as a leaky evaporator. The estimated cost to repair is $1395. Is there any quick fix that may buy me some time to accumulate the repair funds. Short of rolling the windows down? I am told that repair of the evaporator requires removal of the dash and thus may be more than I care (or should) tackle myself. I asked the repair shop if they could recharge the system just to see how long that would last.I suspect that the leak existed last year as I had the system recharged then. It was good for the cooling season which here in Michigan is only 3-4 months long. Due to environmental considerations the repair shop declined to recharge the system. It seems that you used to be able to purchase a recharge kit and do this yourself. Is this still true?
Thanks.