Deane said their youngest resident was 19 while their oldest was 87.
"I'm surprised we are so full."
The shelter has at least 30 residents a night, but Deane said they had been up to 50 as a limit.
Five nights a week social workers visit the shelter for two hours to address the needs of its residents.
"It has been much harder work than I anticipated, it's just the nature of the beast and the type of people we're dealing with," Deane said.
"The health problems they have are very real, mental health, physical health issues with drugs and alcohol."
Over the past few weeks the shelter had been inundated with generous donations of food, bedding, supplies and money.
Deane said the Salvation Army had been a huge supporter in helping them get off the ground.
"We still need money and food to keep up with the ongoing costs."
But his biggest request was for jobs.
Already the shelter had helped one resident into full time employment and seven others into part-time jobs.
"It is worth it in that respect, when I see the smile on their faces and when they are coming to me telling me they want to find work and support themselves," Deane said.
He had been calling local businesses but urged any who were seeking employees to give him a call.
"We are supervising them, making sure they show up for work and do a good job.
"There's already a big difference in them now, they're showered and they have access to a laundry and clean clothes."
Despite the positives, Deane had increased security and now searched people and their property when they arrived at the shelter.
"We look for everything and anything that could cause themselves or others harm, it's all about their safety."
He said staff had previously found empty beer cans under couches and hidden in the bathroom.
"A lot of the teething issues have been resolved."
He said a few residents had already been given a one week ban for misconduct but upon their return had drastically improved their behaviour.
Rotorua Police had supported the shelter and Deane said they had formed a strong partnership.
"We had an elderly woman who turned up too drunk to come into the shelter, the police were able to hold her in their detox centre overnight and we picked her up again in the morning," Deane said.
The shelter will be open until November 1.
How you can help
The shelter is still in need of donations, cash, home baking and food are all desired.
There is an urgent need for employment opportunities for the residents.
If you wish to donate, visit the Visions of a Helping Hand drop in centre at 1225 Pukuatua St.
Donations can also be made to the Sanctuary Manaakitanga Fund: 03-0415-0068007-00. Businesses can sponsor the shelter or offer employment by contacting Tiny Deane on 027 506 1313.
