KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — 36 days into the government shutdown, programs that rely on federal funding are left questioning how to continue helping those they serve.

LIHEAP, or the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, may not be able to continue, according to the Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee, and applications just opened for the year.

For Julie Olsen, receiving LIHEAP assistance means much more than just keeping her home warm.

“I got grandbabies and stuff, so I get to do stuff with them, take them places a little, you know? I don't have to keep saying that I don't have any money or anything because it does really help big time with helping with the bills,” she said.

Olsen said LIHEAP can help pay a couple of months' worth of utility bills, which often jump near

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