More than 1,300 local Illinois families might not get help with their energy bills this winter.
"It will have a huge impact on our local families," said Jennifer Howard, community services coordinator with Project NOW.
The state's budget stalemate is holding up nearly $1 million in funding.
Before sign-ups start on Thursday, the line stretches about a half-block just after sunrise.
"It's hard, but I'll try," said Andray Williams, Rock Island.
By 4:30 a.m., some residents were arriving for the 8 a.m. opening.
"I have no money to pay for lights and gas," said Shirley Garrow, Rock Island. "I don't know what I'm going to do."
Single mom Melody Jones is hoping for help.
"It makes a great big difference," she said.
The longtime LIHEAP program could provide a one-time utility payment around $600.
"You need heat," she continued. "You don't want to get sick. You want to keep the kids comfortable and warm."
Staffers are busy making appointments on Thursday.
They're starting a month late due to the state's budget mess.
"There's a huge need for the program in our three-county area," Howard said.
They're trying to help as many residents as possible with limited federal money, but it won't be enough.
Normally, Project NOW helps about 8,000 families with energy assistance in Rock Island, Henry and Mercer counties.
That figure could drop to 6,700 families without a state budget deal.
"Being on one income is not enough," Jones said. "You need two or three jobs to make it in this world."
As Melody Jones and her kids head to the bus stop, they're bracing for winter's wrath.
"That's why it's really important to help those who need it," she concluded.
Help for needy Illinois families that's caught in the budget battle.
Project NOW will continue to take applications for the elderly and disabled.
Starting November 1, it will sign up families with children under age six.
The general public can start applying for help on December 1.
For more information, call Project NOW at (309) 793-6391.