The combination of a harsh economy and a cold winter could have more people looking for help in paying their heating bills, local organizations fear.

In its first week, Warm Hearts of Douglas County had 34 applications for heating assistance and many more are expected to follow, said Linda Lassen, the Penn House program director.

“I think with the economy and the way people are losing jobs, I just have a feeling we are going to see more,” said Lassen, who oversees applications from across the community for the Warm Hearts program.

In 2009, the program, which runs from January to April, helped 423 families. Douglas County residents are eligible for the program if they are at 185 percent or less of the federal poverty guideline. For a single person that would mean an annual income of $20,036, and $40,793 for a family of four.

Warm Hearts funds are distributed through the Ballard Center, Douglas County Senior Services, ECKAN, Penn House and the Salvation Army.

So far, Black Hills Energy hasn’t seen any difference from last year in the number of people not paying their bills or the amount of money that hasn’t been collected, spokesman Curt Floerchinger said.

“If the numbers were to go up, we are prepared for that,” Floerchinger said.

Jeanette Collier, ECKAN human services coordinator, said she also expects to see more requests for assistance with utility bills.

Collier said that people who won’t be able to pay their bill should ask for help before the heat is turned off. While Warm Hearts can help cover late bills, the money can’t be used for utility deposits, turn-on-charges and reconnection fees.

Along with seeking assistance from Warm Hearts, residents can call their utility companies and ask to pay one-twelfth of the overdue bill now and then pay off the rest over the next year.

Under state law, from November through March utilities can’t turn off the heat if the temperature is forecast to drop below 35 degrees. But if bills are delinquent, the utility can start final notification and the disconnection process once the 48-hour forecast predicts temperatures to go above 35 degrees.

Utilities must also send a written notice to a customer 10 days before disconnection and make personal contact and a phone call the day before the heat is turned off.