DENVER -- With the sharp increase in natural gas and energy prices there are more people in Colorado who can't afford to pay their utility bills this winter.

But there is more help on the way to make sure every family stays warm during the chilly season.

On Thursday morning, Gov. Bill Owens said he will seek $20 million for a program to help low-income families pay their heating bills.

Last month, Owens said in his budget proposal that he'd ask lawmakers to spend $10 million from energy tax royalties to increase funding for the Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP).

On Thursday, he amended that request to $20 million. He said the additional funds are needed to make up for sharply higher heating costs that have increased demands on the program.

"So clearly, the additional help this year is very important. The elderly, the disabled, our state's poorest families -- these are the people we will be helping in the coming months," Owens said. "This is an appropriate use of mineral and energy severance taxes. I urge the Legislature to make this one of their highest priorities when the session begins in January."

The price of natural gas is up roughly 35 percent this year, compared to last year. With the additional funds from the state, a qualifying low-income family could receive a $500 benefit from LEAP, instead of the current $300.

Last year, 96,000 Colorado families received assistance from LEAP and that number is expected to jump to 105,000 families this season.

To qualify for LEAP, the applicant must be at or below the 185 percent level of the federal poverty index. For an individual, this would represent a maximum gross monthly income of $1,475. For a family of two, the maximum monthly income would be $1,978; for a family of three, $2,481; for a family of four, $2,983.

To apply to the LEAP program call (866) HEAT HELP or (866) 432-8435. To donate to Energy Outreach Colorado, go to their Web site.

Outreach Colorado is nonprofit organization that helps raise money for LEAP year-round.

"Especially this winter, I would encourage Coloradans to consider making a donation to Energy Outreach Colorado. You can be assured that your tax deductible donation will be put to good use, helping those who are less fortunate pay their heating bills," Owens said.

Owens said that next year it will be even easier for Coloradans to help support Energy Outreach Colorado. Legislation passed in the 2005 session will create a voluntary check-off program for donations to Energy Outreach.

Starting next fall, gas and electric utility customers will simply check a box on their bill if they wish to participate. They will then make a monthly contribution as part of their utility bill payment. Consumers will decide the amount they wish to donate, and they can opt out of the program whenever they choose.

"I believe Coloradans will choose to participate in this effort," Owens said. "Our state has a great history and tradition of helping those in need and there is nothing more fundamental than helping provide a warm place to live."