The Low Income Energy Assistance Program may have no funding beyond November due to the federal government shutdown. Western North Carolina families who rely on money from the program, could struggle to pay heating bills.

The bulk of the money will go towards reimbursing state emergency road and bridge work and millions are county governments as well.

The Republican congressman spoke with BPR this week about negotiations over reopening the federal government, Hurricane Helene recovery and more.

The FEMA money is crucial for many states, including North Carolina, in funding emergency equipment. It also supports the salaries of personnel who step in to assist with natural disasters and other emergencies, including terrorism and threats to public safety.

Elections took place in cities and towns across the region on Tuesday.

What you need to know from the Nov. 4 Buncombe County Board of Commissioners meeting

Local and state government organizations in Tennessee are paying $80,000 a week to keep the park open through Jan. 4.

In a public forum last week, residents peppered local candidates for the Board of Aldermen with questions about Helene, housing, and local infrastructure.

Buncombe County and MANNA FoodBank are ramping up relief efforts as thousands across the region brace for a lapse in federal food assistance starting.

The Buncombe County town of about 5,000 has seen its population double in the last 25 years — and it’s expected to double again in the next three.