The Strathmore Overnight Shelter is appealing to the public to help them pay for $80,000 in upgrades so people aren't left out in the cold this winter.

Pastor Elizabeth Karp says the shelter isn't meant to keep people long term.

"It's strictly an overnight shelter and we just want to keep people out of the cold, feed them in the morning and connect them with services in Strathmore or Calgary if they're willing to get some help."

She says the Town of Strathmore has provided $40,000 for operating costs and adds the money is for the running of the shelter and not the fire systems that are needed.

Pastor Elizabeth says the need is great.

"The purpose of the overnight shelter is to help free up some space for families in the crisis shelter, aside from last winter a lot of people freeze to death in the winter and we have a lot of people who come through."

She says they have $20,000 so far.

"I'm stepping out in faith one step at a time, I have enough to pay the Engineer that's putting in for the developing permit but we have a little way to go."

An automotive shop is on site to teach people the basics of car repair.

Many of the rooms are still undergoing upgrades like this room for men. Pastor Elizabeth says they'll use mats on the floor and adds the room will hold ten men.

This room intended for women is still under construction.