As we see with many small communities and towns around the world, populations are severely affected by a lack of people. Small communities with ageing populations are the most at risk of economic recession and, eventually, disappearance.

Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix in the Rivière-du-Loup Regional County is one of those communities. With a population of only 328 people, the community is desperate for new citizens. They're giving away a plot of land for FREE to anyone who's willing to relocate and build a house on the property. 

The lot, valued at over $10,000, is 55,000 square feet which is roughly equal to about 1.5 acres of pristine land. Ideally, the community is looking for families to round out its ageing population but they're happy with whoever meets the selection criteria, according to the Journal de Quebec.

Originally, the lots were drawn in a lottery that was won by 4 people in 2014 but they did not commit to building houses on the properties. Five years later, one plot remains. 

[rebelmouse-image 26891140 photo_credit="Municipalit\u00e9 de Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix" expand=1 original_size="1275x1650"] Municipalité de Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix

Your neighbours will be others who took advantage of the free land offer and decided to start a new life in the small community of Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix. 

According to the town's 2016 census, around 25% of the population is over 65. This is a troubling number for a town that's struggling to maintain a healthy population. 

While anyone can claim the plot of land, the individual must meet stringent criteria that include the promise to build a house, a well, and a wastewater treatment system within two years. 

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If you have a family, however, the criteria will not be imposed on you. Instead, the municipality will give you all the time you need to settle in, so long as you promise and sign a contract that you will build a house. 

Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix is a quaint little town with a small school, a church, and not much to do. However, it seems like a great place to start a new life. 

Such close proximity to the Gaspé region and the start of the Saint-Lawrence River make it an idyllic location and a perfect spot for those of you who love to adventure in the great outdoors.

Ever wanted to drop it all and start a new life in a quiet and idyllic farm town? Here's your chance to do it today!

For more information about the plot of land that's available and to read up on the finer details, please visit Saint-Paul-de-la-Croix's official municipal website.