Fredericton, New Brunswick — Marcel LeBrun, a successful Canadian entrepreneur, has invested $4 million of his own money to tackle homelessness in his hometown. LeBrun, the founder of a social media monitoring company, has launched a project called 12 Neighbours, which aims to provide 99 tiny homes for people experiencing homelessness.
The project features a gated community of fully furnished tiny homes, each equipped with kitchens, living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Solar panels are installed on the roofs of the homes to reduce energy costs. In addition to housing, the project includes an enterprise center, which offers job opportunities through a coffee bar and a silk printing business.
LeBrun’s initiative aims to give residents more than just shelter; it provides a stable environment and the opportunity to rebuild their lives through work and homeownership.
Fredericton, with approximately 1,600 homeless individuals each year, faces a significant challenge. LeBrun saw an opportunity to make a difference by offering long-term housing and job opportunities. The homes are being constructed in a factory by skilled volunteers, with each home taking about four business days to complete.
Homeownership is at the core of LeBrun’s vision for the project. By allowing residents to own their homes, 12 Neighbours provides them with a sense of responsibility and stability. The inclusion of job opportunities in the community ensures that residents have the chance to gain employment and contribute to the local economy.
Despite the positive impact of the project, 12 Neighbours has faced some criticism. Some critics argue that the isolated, gated nature of the community may not be the best approach. However, LeBrun defends his model, emphasizing that providing a secure and supportive environment is essential for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.
The community includes top-level security measures, including gated entrances and surveillance systems, to ensure the safety of residents.
