Her injured legs have healed, but she is struggling to find work and her unemployment payments end this week. With falling temperatures and a soaring gas bill, the Salt Lake City woman is running out of time and money: "I've lost my savings."

Thousands of Utahns share Wallace's financial predicament as winter heating bills, predicted to be 34 percent to 40 percent higher than last year, drive demand for programs that help low-income families pay to heat their homes. Wallace depends on such a program, without which she says she would "be lost."

But on Monday Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. predicted the state will be several million dollars short of being able to meet growing demand - a gap he is asking the private sector to fill.

"Sadly, for many people this winter, we know it will come down to choices between food, medicine or heat," Huntsman said at a Monday news conference, organized to alert citizens to fundraisers run by Questar Gas and Utah Power.

The two utility companies are asking customers to donate this month to the heat assistance program operated by the Greater Salt Lake Chapter of the American Red Cross. Customers can add a few dollars to their monthly bills, or send a check for a one-time donation.

"With a couple of bucks here and a couple of bucks there, we hope to fill in the gap," said Huntsman.

The Red Cross complements a federally funded program, Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT), which saw no increase this year in its $14 million budget.

Huntsman estimates that in order to continue serving 36,000 Utahns and cover rate hikes, which will add about $32 to the average household's heating costs, HEAT's funding would need to increase by $3 million.

But that figure doesn't account for growing demand. Currently, due to a low application rate, HEAT serves about 35 percent of those who qualify. But Kevin Knight, the governor's energy policy coordinator, said, "If 50 percent apply, we will be $9 million short. It's hard to say; a lot of people qualify, but don't apply. They try to make it on their own or turn to their church group."

It's a budget-surplus year, but Huntsman said he will monitor the fundraising before turning to the Legislature with a request to supplement HEAT's budget.

"We're committed to serve our citizens in need to the best of our ability," said Huntsman.

Last year, the Red Cross program served 5,600 Utahns. Because its eligibility requirements allow for a higher income threshold - $29,025 annually for a family of four - the program reaches those who don't qualify for HEAT.

Some people may qualify for both programs.

Huntsman also is working with advocates to spread energy conservation awareness in a bid to help families help themselves.

His adviser on low-income issues, Pamela Atkinson, is soliciting donations of low-wattage light bulbs, draft stoppers for doors and windows and cold weather clothing. Those wishing to donate should dial 211 for more information.

kstewart@sltrib.com

Simple steps to save money

Lower your thermostat and water heater temperature 5 to 10 degrees

Close fireplace dampers and insulate heat ducts and water pipes

Use cold water whenever possible

Cut back use of clothes dryer, a big energy drain that sucks heat from the home

Use the microwave or small appliances, such as a crock pot, instead of the oven

Use a door "snake" or rolled-up towel to stop drafts under doors.

Source: Utah governor's office