Creating Canadian Connections with International Student over the holidays
Friendship
Families
We are a hospitality program that provides Canadians with an opportunity to host International Students into the home for a holiday meal during traditional Canadian holidays of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
How it Works
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Sign Up for Friendship Families
Both Students and Hosts pick a date that works for you!
Select the specific registration to get started!
Students Choose a Host Home
Students choose a host home that is available to them in their city chapter, on the date that best works for them.
Hosts are notified of students selection as soon as their table is full.
Hosts notify their students about event specifics within 3 Days of the event
A few things to know:
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All hosts are vetted by H.I.S.
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Each meal will include a minimum of 2 students
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Transportation is provided by your host
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Your host will be informed of any dietary restrictions in advance
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Enjoy a Holiday Meal
It’s important to remember that you are being welcomed into a unique experience where you can appreciate Canadian traditions while also being enriched by learning about one another’s cultures.
In respecting everyone’s cultures, hosts are made aware of your dietary restrictions; however, the meal will remain a traditional holiday-style dinner.
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Important to Know
Key Dates to Remember:
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Canadian host will be opening their homes for the entire holiday season. Please select the date, time and family from the available options. Prepare to create cherished memories and forge friendships that span the globe.
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Please also note that you will be contacted directly by the family around 1 week to 3 days before the date to confirm all the details.
Safety and Transportation Matters:
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To ensure the safety and comfort of the students, we kindly request hosts to provide transportation if required. Your hosts will be in touch with you about transportation.
Capture the Moments:
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We’d be thrilled to receive snapshots of your heartwarming meals shared with your hosts. Along with a brief overview, these photos become a powerful testament to the warmth of Canadian hospitality. Your stories inspire and welcome new families and friends to the HIS community. Please ensure that you have received proper consent from all people involved, before posting photos on social media.
Stay in Touch:
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For any queries, changes, or updates after registering, please reach out to us at info@helpinginternationalstudents.com
Friendship Families In Action
Priyanka*
As an international student living away from family and cultural activities, it means a lot to share a table with local families and get a glimpse of the festivals/events in the host culture!
Jingjing*
I really enjoyed everything that was cooked by the host family. They are by far the most loving and caring people I have come across in Canada. Probably why I went back for Christmas after thanksgiving. I really like talking to them and learning about their culture and sharing about my culture or background in general.
*Names have been changed for student confidentiality
Daniel*
It made me feel accepted in a foreign land. It was my first Christmas celebration outside my hometown and it was a great experience for me.