Homelessness continues to be a widespread problem across the globe, impacting cities of various sizes. Although governments, NGOs, and other organizations have made efforts to tackle the issue, a permanent solution has yet to be found. In Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canadian millionaire Marcel LeBrun chose to take matters into his own hands to confront this challenge.
Marcel LeBrun, the founder of a successful social media monitoring company, chose to use the wealth from selling his business to make a meaningful difference in his community. Aware of the homelessness issue in Fredericton, he came up with the idea for “12 Neighbours,” which would consist of 99 tiny homes and an enterprise center. His aim was to provide not only housing but also job opportunities, offering a second chance to those in need.
Homelessness impacts around 1,600 individuals in New Brunswick, and LeBrun saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. His vision for 12 Neighbours goes beyond simply providing shelter; it seeks to create a nurturing community by offering fully-furnished living spaces with amenities such as kitchens, living areas, bedrooms, full bathrooms, and solar panels on the roofs.
Understanding the value of homeownership, LeBrun believes it fosters a sense of responsibility and stability. 12 Neighbours empowers its residents by offering them the chance to own their homes, promoting a supportive and cohesive community.
To maintain the safety of the 12 Neighbours community, LeBrun has put in place advanced security features, such as gated entrances and high-quality surveillance. This ensures that residents have a safe and secure environment.
LeBrun set up a factory where trained volunteers assemble homes using cutting-edge manufacturing methods. The building process, which results in one tiny home being completed every four business days, creates fully furnished living spaces. These homes are then carefully positioned on concrete blocks, establishing the foundation for the 12 Neighbours community.
In addition to providing housing, 12 Neighbours also emphasizes job creation by establishing an enterprise center within the community. Residents operate a coffee bar and a silk printing business, which not only generate income but also encourage interaction between the residents and the wider community.
Despite its well-meaning goals, 12 Neighbours has been met with criticism, with some calling for the immediate reintegration of homeless individuals into society. LeBrun recognizes these concerns and stresses the importance of tackling the specific challenges faced by those who have experienced homelessness.