In the city of Fredericton, a revolutionary project is taking shape, one that promises to redefine community living and tackle homelessness.
At the heart of this initiative is Marcel Lebrun, a millionaire who, after selling his software business, has embarked on a mission to create a network of tiny homes.
This community, known as 12 Neighbours, is not just a collection of dwellings but a beacon of hope, offering residents not only a place to stay but the tools to rebuild their lives.
His factory is cranking out 1 tiny house every 4 business days.
Lebrun’s vision is materializing on a piece of land that once lay dormant, now transformed into a sanctuary of 99 tiny homes.
Each home, though modest in size, comes complete with all the essentials of comfortable living, from a full kitchen to a cozy living area.
This initiative is more than just a housing project; it’s proof of Lebrun’s belief in community building as a cornerstone for societal improvement.
The stark reality of homelessness in New Brunswick, with over 1,800 people facing homelessness at some point last year, underscores the urgency of Lebrun’s project.
The 12 Neighbours community is a direct response to this crisis, offering a sustainable model of affordable housing that prioritizes the well-being of its residents.
It’s a model that not only provides shelter but fosters a sense of belonging and purpose.
Susan Hayward’s story is an example of the community’s impact.
After her husband’s passing, she found herself evicted and friendless, a narrative all too common among the homeless.
The 12 Neighbours community offered her a lifeline, a place where she could afford to live and, more importantly, an opportunity to start anew without the overwhelming burden of unmanageable living costs.
The community’s design is intentional, promoting both security and inclusivity.
With controlled access and community spaces, residents like Randy Bir, who once lived in his car, now find themselves part of a supportive environment.
Bir’s transformation from a life of uncertainty to a landscaper for the community epitomizes the transformative power of 12 Neighbours.
Despite the success stories, challenges remain.
Issues such as drug addiction and safety concerns are addressed with thoughtful measures like gated access and on-site security, ensuring that the community remains a safe haven for its residents.
The project’s ambition extends beyond housing; it’s about creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that includes employment opportunities and communal facilities.
At the core of the community is the Enterprise Center, a hub for social and economic activity.
Here, residents like Samantha Seymour can learn new skills and find employment within the community itself.
The center is poised to house a coffee shop, a teaching kitchen, and a silk screening business, all of which contribute to the residents’ sense of belonging and self-worth.
This not only provides them with a job but also gives them a purpose, which everyone needs to feel.
The financial backbone of this endeavor is as impressive as its social impact.
Lebrun, with unwavering commitment, has invested $4 million of his personal fortune, supplemented by governmental support to a tune of $12 million.
The goal is clear: to create a community that is not only self-sustaining but also an integral part of the larger society.
The 12 Neighbours community stands as proof of the power of vision and generosity.
It’s a place where the marginalized can find dignity and a fresh start.
As Lebrun’s project continues to grow, it serves as a shining example of how private initiative, coupled with community support, can address some of society’s most intractable problems.
This is not just a story about building homes; it’s about building hope and a future where everyone has a place to call home.
Learn more about this incredible initiative in the video below.
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