12 Neighbours Inc. is a local not-for-profit, founded by Marcel Lebrun, a retired software engineer. The goal of the project is to provide affordable housing and to bring a safe environment to those who need it most. 12 Neighbors Inc. describes their mission as “to create a dignified micro-home community that provides a safe space to heal, pursue opportunities, and go after your best self.”
The Fredericton city council has already approved 12 Neighbours Inc.’s plan to construct the tiny homes on the northside of the city. They plan to build 6 tiny homes by the end of 2021 and to have them move-in ready by the Christmas holidays. “Each home is 10’x24’" reads the 12 Neighbours Inc. website, "[they have] a covered front deck, a three-piece bathroom, a kitchen with sink, induction stovetop, microwave, apartment sized fridge, and sleeping accommodations for one or two people.” Along with providing housing for those in need 12 Neighbours Inc. also intend to create jobs, available to those in the tiny home community.
The social enterprise centre will be a space in the community for job opportunities. It is described as “A patient workplace, where members can; develop confidence, learn skills, and earn money”. The social enterprise centre will consist of three businesses in the beginning: The Café, The Art and Apparel Shop, and The Tiny Home Factory. In the Cafe, residents will serve drinks and food, at the Art and Apparel Shop, residents will have the opportunity to sell artworks or crafts in the community. In the Tiny Home Factory residents will help in the construction of homes in the community.
A total of 96 tiny homes are planned to be constructed in Fredericton by 2024, and there may be more if the city council approves them.