ELLSWORTH, Maine — Downeast Community Partners is ending two critical services, health care and transportation support, that have provided a lifeline to residents in Washington and Hancock counties for decades.

"We are sometimes the only avenue that people have for transportation," Erica Brand, the operations manager for DCP's Transportation Department, said.

BRAND helps coordinate rides for people in need across Down East Maine.

For the past four decades, the nonprofit organization has helped residents get to appointments, grocery stores, and social services; however, that support is ending.

"It's really sad," Brand said.

The end of these services is leaving residents without a crucial lifeline and Brand without a job.

"There's not a lot out there. It's a scary time," Brand said.

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