Wealthy Philanthropist Builds Nearly 100 Homes to Tackle Homelessness in His Community
No matter the size, nearly every city worldwide faces the ongoing challenge of homelessness. Despite continuous efforts from governments, charities, and organizations, a permanent solution remains elusive.
Determined to make a difference in his hometown, this generous Canadian entrepreneur decided to take action himself. And he followed through.
A millionaire from Fredericton, New Brunswick, develops 99 tiny homes to combat homelessness while also generating employment opportunities.
A wealthy entrepreneur from Fredericton, New Brunswick, has made an exceptional move to address homelessness in his community.
Marcel LeBrun, the founder of a well-known social media analytics firm, has personally contributed $4 million to build 99 tiny homes for those in need. His innovative approach not only provides a stable and secure housing solution but also creates job opportunities.
Let’s delve into Marcel LeBrun’s inspiring journey and his visionary project, 12 Neighbours.
The Origins of Twelve Neighbors
After selling his company for a significant profit, LeBrun chose to use his wealth to create a lasting impact.
After witnessing the severity of homelessness in Fredericton, he envisioned a village of tiny homes to offer those in need a fresh start.
He named the initiative 12 Neighbours, aiming to develop a secure, gated community with 99 homes and an enterprise center that provides both shelter and job opportunities.
Addressing a Critical Issue
Homelessness impacts many in New Brunswick, with nearly 1,600 individuals experiencing it for at least one day last year.
It’s widely known that larger U.S. cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York face even higher numbers. Seeing an opportunity to make a difference, Marcel LeBrun took action to improve the lives of those struggling.
Building a Supportive Community
LeBrun envisions 12 Neighbours as more than just a housing project. His goal is to foster a welcoming space where residents can truly belong.
Each tiny home is fully equipped with a kitchen, living area, bedroom, bathroom, and even rooftop solar panels, making them much more than just shelters.
Constructing the Homes
To bring his vision to life, LeBrun established a factory where skilled volunteers assemble the tiny houses.
Using advanced manufacturing methods, the facility produces one home every four business days. Once finished, each house is carefully positioned on concrete blocks, forming the foundation of the community.
The Impact of Ownership
Marcel LeBrun believes that homeownership plays a crucial role in offering stability and fostering a sense of responsibility for those who have experienced homelessness.
The mission of 12 Neighbours is to uplift individuals and cultivate a supportive community by providing them with the opportunity to own their own homes.
The Importance of Employment
LeBrun’s project not only provides housing but also creates job opportunities for its residents.
The 12 Neighbours enterprise center features a coffee shop and a silk-screen printing business run by residents. Beyond generating income, this initiative fosters connections between the community and the wider public.
Criticism and Controversy
Like any large-scale initiative, 12 Neighbourshas faced criticism. Some believe that instead of creating a separate community, it would be better to reintegrate homeless individuals directly into society.
While acknowledging these concerns, LeBrun has taken measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
“With all the challenges involved, building four houses is just as complex as constructing ten or twenty. We wanted to contribute to addressing the issue in Fredericton,” he explained.
In contrast to a decentralized strategy, LeBrun emphasized, “If we truly want to make a lasting impact, we have to build homes.”
He further elaborated, “Imagine taking someone who has lived on the streets and offering them a 10-year lease in the city’s most luxurious apartment rent-free. Would they thrive? That’s not their community. They aren’t used to that way of living.”
Ensuring Community Safety
Recognizing the importance of security, Marcel LeBrun implemented advanced safety measures in the 12 Neighbours community. With monitored entrances and top-tier surveillance, residents can enjoy a protected and secure environment.
LeBrun highlighted one of the challenges residents face after moving into their new homes:
“Once they settle in, others may come around saying, ‘Hey, you owe me this, you owe me that,’ and they start taking over.”
He emphasized the importance of residents learning what it truly means to have control over their own space—making decisions about who is allowed in and out.
“That’s a real challenge,” LeBrun told CBC, describing some of the difficulties community members encounter.
Community Engagement
One of 12 Neighbours’ key goals is to foster a strong sense of belonging both within and beyond its borders.
By offering spaces like a coffee shop and a custom printing business, LeBrun aims to create a hub where residents and the broader Fredericton community can connect and engage.
LeBrun sees his mission as more than just building a small neighborhood—he envisions a movement that strengthens the entire city.
“I consider myself a community builder, and what we’re doing here isn’t just about creating a small community; it’s about fostering a citywide connection. How can we make our city better?” he told CBC.
Making an Impact
Marcel LeBrun’s initiative to build 99 tiny homes in Fredericton, New Brunswick, is a remarkable example of using personal success to drive meaningful change.
Through 12 Neighbours, he has provided not only a practical housing solution for the homeless but also a supportive community and job opportunities.
His dedication and generosity have made him a beacon of hope, inspiring others to take action and make a difference.
