While most Calgary families are gearing up for the start of school, some are just struggling to get by.

Odey starts Grade 9 next week, but instead of stocking up on school supplies, Odey and her mom have been staying at a homeless shelter.

The pair, who are living at Inn from the Cold, are part of a growing trend. The shelter, a Calgary charity that helps families in need, says they’ve been busier than ever this year.

Odey’s mom Kimberly Weaselhead says she doesn't have the means to get the teen ready for the school year.

"I find it hard. To be honest, it's kind of hard, new to me,” said Weaselhead.

“Right now, I don't even have anything for her. When we did have a place and I was sending them to school, I was up early, feeding them, getting them dressed. Now it's going to be rushed."

Odey, who turns 14 in September, says she just wants to go to school and learn.

Her mom is hoping Odey can concentrate — and be tough if kids notice her situation.

"I just told her not to be scared and pay attention to school and not the kids around her."

New program

Inn from the Cold has a partnership with Catherine Nichols Gunn School. The school provides kids with clothes and supplies.

Principal Rod Bauer is working with the shelter to make back to school easier for families in "transition."

"When kids get into our school and their needs are met — their basic needs are met — they know that our staff cares about them and the other kids are accepting them for who they are,” said Bauer.

“Then they start to let their guard down. It's like a weight is lifted from their shoulders and they start to feel like they belong."

Calgarians can help make back to school easier for homeless families by donating school supplies, shoes or clothing to Inn From the Cold.