It is thought up to 20 people sleep rough in Wrexham centre

The council has provided a temporary building to sleep 10 people, but more money is needed to cover running costs.

The appeal is organised by Wrexham charity, Together Creating Communities (TCC), and is backed by council leader Aled Roberts and local politicians.

In a joint statement they said: "The need is urgent and the need is now."

TCC, in partnership with the Wrexham Rooflessness Coalition, is urging pubs and businesses to help fund the project.

We are asking for the businesses and community of Wrexham for their help now The Very Rev Chris Potter, Dean of St Asaph

It is estimated up to 20 people sleep rough in Wrexham town centre every night.

TCC senior organiser Chris Pilsbury said: "Something needs to be done urgently, but to get this centre open we desperately need more funding.

"One pensioner has sent us �25 after hearing about our appeal, but we need more donations.

"We've had some promises of funding, but it would make a big difference if pubs and other local businesses put in �100 each."

Wrexham Council is making available a portable building close to the town centre to provide emergency accommodation between December and April.

Many homeless people live in bed and breakfasts

Clwyd Alyn Housing Association will provide trained staff to run the project, but does not have funding to cover the running costs.

Wrexham MP Ian Lucas and AM John Marek have backed the appeal, along with local assembly members Janet Ryder and Mark Isherwood and council leader Aled Roberts.

Dean of St Asaph and TCC chairman the Very Reverend Chris Potter, has written to local businesses calling for support.

He said: "There are no funds available from the council or government which can be accessed at this time.

"We have made grant applications, but we don't know if they will be successful or how long they will take so we are asking for the businesses and community of Wrexham for their help now."

If the venture is successful, the TCC said it could pave the way for a permanent emergency shelter in Wrexham.

Last year the council's budget for housing hundreds of homeless people in bed and breakfast accommodation was overspent by �200,000.