(AP) STATEWIDE - The federal government shutdown has created delays in the federal program that helps millions of families heat and cool their homes.

While electric and natural gas companies generally are barred from cutting customers off, more than half of Maine households rely on oil.

In Baileyville , Gerard Berry got emergency help filling his oil tank last winter when he was sick with stomach cancer.

State officials say an emergency program that typically starts Nov. 1 is now on hold, although the state is reallocating money to help households that applied for help early.

Kelli Casey, a Program Coordinator at Aroostook County Action, oversees heating aid for three counties, including Berry’s location.

Her office has been getting more than 700 calls a day from people like Be

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