AUGUSTA — MaineHousing announced Wednesday that it will use $2.2 million in carryover funds to provide home energy assistance payments to nearly 4,000 households.

Typically, qualified Mainers begin receiving Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funds on November 1 to help cover heating costs. But this year, that money remains frozen due to the government shutdown.

The funds are expected to reach about a third of those still waiting for assistance. MaineHousing officials said the payments will be distributed based on priority, targeting households most vulnerable to the cold — including seniors over 60, children under 6, and individuals living with disabilities.

“There’s a lot of people who have a lot of need here, and we are always hearing from them. And it’s very troubling,” said Eri

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