A generous initiative led by Marcel LeBrun, a wealthy entrepreneur from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada, is making a significant impact on the local homeless population. LeBrun, who invested $4 million of his personal wealth, spearheaded the creation of 99 small homes under the project named 12 Neighbours, aiming to provide shelter and employment opportunities.
After a lucrative business sale, LeBrun chose to utilize his newfound resources to address the homelessness issue prevalent in Fredericton. Witnessing a community in need, he envisioned a gated development comprising 99 fully furnished tiny homes and a business center to offer both housing and job prospects.
Named 12 Neighbours, the project goes beyond providing mere shelter. LeBrun, positioning himself as a community leader, aspires to cultivate a positive living environment. The tiny homes are not basic accommodations but feature amenities such as kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, full bathrooms, and even solar panels on the roofs.
LeBrun established a factory employing skilled workers to construct the homes, utilizing cutting-edge manufacturing methods. Every four workdays, a new tiny house is produced and carefully placed on concrete blocks, forming the foundation of the community.
Recognizing the importance of homeownership in instilling a sense of responsibility and stability, LeBrun believes that providing individuals with their own homes will empower them and contribute to building a supportive society.
In addition to housing, the 12 Neighbours project emphasizes job opportunities for its residents. The community members manage a coffee shop and a silk printing business within the business center, fostering both economic growth and community connections.
While the initiative has faced criticism and disagreements, LeBrun remains committed to addressing the challenges associated with homelessness. He acknowledges the need for security measures and has implemented cutting-edge solutions, including gated entrances and top-notch security protocols, to ensure the safety of the community.
In addressing concerns about integrating homeless individuals back into society immediately versus providing stable housing first, LeBrun emphasizes the importance of creating a real impact by building houses. He believes that offering a residence in an unfamiliar neighborhood may not be as effective as creating a supportive community where individuals can learn to manage their space and regain control over their lives.
