Homelessness is a major global issue, even in Canadian places like Fredericton, New Brunswick. To address this issue, Canadian billionaire and businessman Marcel LeBrun took the initiative and started a community project. Following the sale of his profitable media monitoring business, LeBrun donated a sizeable amount of his proceeds to the local homelessness problem.
LeBrun noticed a 25% rise in the number of homeless people in New Brunswick and recognized a chance to have a significant influence.99 small dwellings and an entrepreneurship center were built as part of his “12 Neighbors” concept. The project’s budget increased to $12 million from an initial $4 million investment with grants and government backing.
These tiny homes are fully functional living spaces with kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms that are complemented by solar panel systems mounted on their roofs. They are not just temporary shelters. A factory for expert builders to assemble the homes quickly is also part of the idea.LeBrun wants to create a community that is encouraging rather than just sheltering people.
Ownership of the properties confers influence on the residents and fosters communal stability. The community’s entrepreneurship center provides employment possibilities, like managing a coffee shop and silk printing company, to promote economic independence.
LeBrun is steadfast in his will to handle security issues and guarantee residents’ safety by utilizing monitoring systems and controlled gates, even in the face of criticism.
This project is a fantastic illustration of how to use one’s achievements to spur social change and encourage others to make contributions to society.
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