The department shall recognize and assist in the designation of certain community action agencies to assist in the delivery of community action programs. These programs shall include but not be limited to outreach, community services block grant, low-income energy assistance, and weatherization programs. If a community action agency is in effect and currently serving an area, that community action agency shall become the designated community action agency for that area. If any geographic area of the state ceases to be served by a designated community action agency, the department may solicit applications and assist the governor in designating a community action agency for that area in accordance with current community services block grant requirements.