As used in this Chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:
(a) Shelter means any facility with sleeping accommodations and acceptable sanitary facilities, the primary purpose of which to provide temporary shelter to the homeless. This definition encompasses transitional housing and similar arrangements that provide longer term ac- commodations, so long as the maximum length of stay does not exceed twelve months.
(b) Department means the Department of Public Health and Social
Services.

(c) Homeless means families or individuals who are economically disadvantaged and have no access to shelter.