MAINE, USA — More than 40,000 Mainers may be left without critical heating support this winter if President Donald Trump’s proposed federal budget moves forward as written.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known in Maine as HEAP, provides financial help to low-income residents to heat their homes during the winter months. Funded annually by the federal government, the program typically brings around $40 million into Maine.

“It’s a very important program,” MaineHousing Director Dan Brennan said.

MaineHousing is the agency that oversees HEAP in the state.

This year’s proposed federal budget, however, eliminates funding for the program altogether, sparking concern among state leaders and service providers alike.

“It is literally a lifesaving program for folks,” said Cart

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