Funding crisis threatens to end BRCA’s weatherization program in Burke County

Blue Ridge Community Action (BRCA) may be forced to cut its Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), leaving 75 Burke County families without crucial services as the warm weather cools.

WAP provides energy-efficient upgrades, such as insulation and sealing, to low-income households. BRCA also provides the Heating Appliance Repair and Replacement Program (HARRP) to service households with inadequate or no heating system or air conditioning. 

Last year, BRCA spent $191,185.40 on weatherization services and $47,668 on heating services in Burke County. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding could have expanded these services, but administrative and logistical challenges forced BRCA to withdraw from the program. 

The strained relationship between BRCA and the NC Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is a major factor in the funding crisis, particularly after Matthew Davis joined State Energy Office (SEO) as weatherization supervisor.

Despite BRCA’s 40 years of experience in providing weatherization services, the organization has been excluded from key decision-making processes. BRCA Chief Operating Officer Shawna Hanes noted that BRCA staff were even muted during one key Zoom meeting with DEQ staff.

In July of 2023 (SEO) implemented a new filing system for organizations to organize the spending procedures of weatherization programs across the state. BRCA staff now submit between 300 and 600 documents each month, a task that has taken staff away from their primary focus — running the programs.

“We’re spending more time on paperwork than helping families,” said Hanes, who expressed frustration that administrative requirements are taking precedence over service delivery.

BRCA partners with private contractors to complete WAP and HARRP services. Through this partnership, BRCA can provide job opportunities in its mentorship programs for individuals looking for stable jobs. 

Without proper funding, BRCA’s ability to recruit, train, and staff individuals for the WAP program has been diminished. Without proper funding, BRCA stands to lose relationships with local contractors and folks trying to get back on their feet may end up unemployed. 

Despite successfully leveraging over $878,000 in non-WAP funds to complete 149 homes across eight counties last year, BRCA has struggled to cover the administrative and program costs. The gap between what is allocated by state funding — around $20,069 per home — and the actual cost of weatherization, which averages $25,964, has created significant financial strain. Moreover, the BIL State Plan’s failure to include funding for heating services left BRCA looking to secure additional resources. 

BRCA withdrew from BIL grant consideration, citing the impossibility of meeting service demands under the circumstances. The delays, lack of funding, and disproportionate allocation to smaller counties left the organization with no clear path forward.

"We’ve already done everything we can to identify other funding streams, but the contributions only go so far," Hanes said. "Without state support, we’re at a standstill, and that's a tough place to be."

As a consequence of the lack of funding, 75 Burke County families remain on the waiting list for weatherization or heating services. The potential loss of these services could leave vulnerable residents without essential support as energy costs rise and temperatures drop in winter months.

Community Action groups across North Carolina have held protests in Raleigh, demanding more transparency and inclusion in state decision-making processes. While these protests highlight the broader systemic issues affecting weatherization services across the state, BRCA’s focus remains on providing for Burke County residents before winter fully sets in.

The organization is determined to continue advocating for its clients and hopes that state officials will address the funding and administrative obstacles that have hindered the delivery of vital services.

“We’re here to serve our community, but we need the support and resources to do so effectively,” Hanes said.