Friendship Families
How it Works
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Sign Up for Friendship Families
Pick a date that works for you! Please do your very best to commit to this date as your host will be shopping specifically for you!
Please fill out your registration form with as much information as possible, so your hosts can be prepared for you!
2
Hear from your Host
Your Canadian host family is excited to welcome YOU into their home. You’ll hear from them at least 3 days before your confirmed date.
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
3
Enjoy a Holiday Meal
It’s important to remember that you’re being welcomed into a special experience and will get to enjoy some real Canadian traditions. Your hosts will be aware of your dietary restrictions, but the meal will still be a traditional holiday-style dinner.
Canada is a big country, so traditions can look different depending on the region and the family. That means every dinner will be a little unique. Also, Canadians sometimes do things that might feel surprising or different from what you see in Hollywood, since most movies are based on the USA, not Canada.
Registration
Thu, Apr 02Host HomesHosted from April 2–6, 2026. Many international students have never stepped inside a Canadian home. This Easter season, we invite you to open your home and share a moment of warm hospitality with students. A simple meal and genuine time together can mean the world and helps students feel welcomed,
RSVP ClosedSat, Dec 20Location is TBDExperience Canadian hospitality and learn about each other's culture and customs by registering to enjoy a Christmas Meal with a Canadian Friendship Host Family from December 20th to the 2nd of January 2026. Click on link to reserve your seat at the available tables. Register for one date only.
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 before the date to confirm all the details.
Safety and Transportation Matters:
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To ensure the safety and comfort of YOU (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.
Stay in Touch:
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For any queries, changes, or updates after registering, please reach out to us at info@helpinginternationalstudents.com
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.