Finding shelter in Buffalo's frigid temperatures can be a challenge for those who don't have a home. But a brand new shelter is opening up its doors just in time for the winter season. YNN's Jennifer Bernstein takes a look at the new facility right here in Buffalo.

BUFFALO, NY-- It's a welcoming sight on Sycamore Street, a redone brick house decked out with holiday decorations. It doesn't look like your typical homeless shelter, but that's what organizers of this brand new facility were going for. The homeless in Buffalo will soon have a different kind of living option than your normal shelter.

"What the Safe Haven does, is it is the entrance point for people who are chronically homeless to obtain permanent housing," said Lake Shore Behavioral Health President Dr. Howard Hitzel.

The Lake Shore Safe Haven is a brand new facility that houses 16 beds, a kitchen, laundry facilities, and sitting rooms. But it's not just a shelter, it's a home.

"What's unique about it is its a low demand environment, where formally reluctant people are able to come in and find a place to live, with very few demands on them. But again in a very hopeful environment," said Hitzel.

Many of the homeless do not like the strict rules at individual shelters, like curfews and medication. For those who have a mental illness, the crowded settings can be difficult to deal with.

Wayne Nuness is the leader of Lake Shore's Outreach Program. He's regularly out trying to convince people to come off the streets.

"What we want to do, is bring them into an environment where they can have a greater level of comfort, a greater level of trust in the people around them," said Nuness.

Every individual receives their own bed, their own place for their personal belongings, and a key. Privacy is an important part of regaining their dignity and respect.

"The most important thing is that they feel valued, and that this is their home. Even if it's someone who pushes a shopping cart. Everything in that shopping cart may be garbage to us, but it is their world," said Homeless Services Program Director, Elizabeth McClam.

The Safe Haven even has a wing for women, many of which have suffered abuse. Organizers say a separate hallway with a lockable door creates a safe environment.

"When we can get people here, and we can get them comfortably housed. So gradually, we can introduce them to other services that they may need," said Nuness.

Organizers said there's already individuals who’ve expressed an interest in using the facility. It's expected to open after the New Year.