Addressing Homelessness One Tiny Home at a Time
Homelessness is an issue that affects cities big and small all over the world, and despite efforts from governments and organizations, it remains a persistent problem.
However, in the Canadian city of Fredericton, New Brunswick, one remarkable individual has taken matters into his own hands to make a real difference. Meet Marcel LeBrun, a millionaire entrepreneur who has invested $4 million of his own money to build 99 tiny homes for the homeless in his community. Not only has he provided safe and stable housing, but he has also created job opportunities through his innovative project, 12 Neighbours.
The Inspiring Origins of 12 Neighbours
After selling his successful social media monitoring company, Marcel LeBrun saw an opportunity to use his newfound wealth to make a positive impact. Witnessing the homelessness problem in Fredericton, he envisioned a community of tiny homes that would provide homeless individuals with a second chance. He named this ambitious project 12 Neighbours, with a goal of building a gated community consisting of 99 homes and an enterprise center that would offer not only housing but also job opportunities.
Taking on a Pressing Issue
Homelessness affects many individuals in New Brunswick, with approximately 1,600 people experiencing homelessness at least once last year. While larger cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York face even greater numbers, Marcel LeBrun recognized an opportunity to bring about change and improve the lives of those facing this challenging situation.
Building More Than Homes
LeBrun’s vision for 12 Neighbours goes beyond constructing tiny homes. He considers himself a community builder, striving to create a supportive environment for the residents. These tiny homes are more than just shelter; they are fully-furnished living spaces complete with kitchens, living areas, bedrooms, full bathrooms, and even solar panel systems on the roofs.
Constructing a Community
To bring his vision to life, LeBrun established a factory where skilled volunteers assemble the tiny homes. Using advanced manufacturing techniques, one tiny home is produced every four business days. After construction, the homes are carefully placed on concrete blocks, forming the foundation of the tightly-knit community.
Ownership and Empowerment
Marcel LeBrun strongly believes that homeownership plays a vital role in offering a sense of responsibility and stability to those who have experienced homelessness. By providing the opportunity for individuals to own their own property, 12 Neighbours aims to empower its residents and foster a supportive community.
The Power of Jobs
Beyond providing housing, LeBrun’s project focuses on creating job opportunities for its residents. The enterprise center within 12 Neighbours features a coffee bar and a silk printing business run by the residents themselves. This entrepreneurial initiative not only generates income but also encourages interaction between the residents and the broader community.
Overcoming Challenges and Critics
Like any ambitious project, 12 Neighbours has faced its fair share of criticism. Some argue that it is better to reintegrate homeless individuals directly into society instead of creating a separate community. However, LeBrun acknowledges the potential challenges involved and has taken measures to ensure the security and well-being of the community.
LeBrun explained his approach, stating, “If we want to actually make a meaningful difference, we have to build some houses. Let’s say I take someone who’s been living outside and put them in a high-end apartment in the city. Are they going to succeed? That is not their community. That is not the context they’re used to living in.”
Securing the Community’s Future
Recognizing the need for security, Marcel LeBrun has implemented state-of-the-art security measures within the 12 Neighbours community. With gated entrances and top-notch surveillance, the community provides a safe and protected space for its residents.
Marcel LeBrun expressed the importance of residents being able to manage their personal spaces, saying, “Moving into a house and then having other people invade your space is a challenge. They have to learn what it means to have a space where you are the manager, where you control it and choose who you invite in and out.”
The project 12 Neighbours stands as a testament to the power of individuals making a difference in their communities. Marcel LeBrun’s commitment to combatting homelessness and providing both shelter and job opportunities is truly inspiring. With his innovative approach and community-driven mindset, he is transforming lives and offering hope for a better future.
