Host a Student

Family Testimonials

---

We joined this homestay program since September 2008. We're glad that we're able to help these student by welcoming them to our home and giving them a good family. We're here to help and guide them. We know that they are away from their families and they are new to this country, so we try to do our best to have them feel at home. So far,we've been so lucky to have good students in our home and they respect us and listen to our advices. And I also appreciate the dedication of the YRDSB coordinators , for making time to visit them every month and make sure the students are with good families and well taken care of. ~ Norma DeVera

---

How can I best describe my experience this year having Jing Wei Chen, an international student from China, living with me? The best way is to describe Lorraine (her chosen Western name) is: active, bouncy, curious, dedicated, enthusiastic, funny, gregarious, helpful, interested and interesting, joyful, kind, lovely, mentor to other students, natural, open, questioning, resolute, super-duper, thoughtful, understanding, victorious, willing, xtremely social, youthful, zealous. Because of Lorraine’s qualities my life has been enriched. Her joi de vivre has brought laughter, joy and warmth to my home. I am honoured that the Homestay Program has chosen me to be part of their program. I am grateful for this amazing life experience. ~ Rhea L. Bottler

---

 

Becoming a Homestay Family

Host an international visa student studying in a school in York Region who wishes to improve his/her English skills and experience Canadian culture.

Are you interested in an enriching experience? By hosting an international visa student you will:

• learn about other countries and cultures
• learn about your own environment through a visitor’s eyes
• form new friendships
• foster respect for our global community
• recapture youthful energy

Can you provide?

• caring, comfortable accommodation for a student
• an English speaking environment
• opportunities for the student to participate in family life and local activities
• integration of an international student into your family
• a private room, 3 meals per day plus snacks (it is recommended that Canada's Food Guide is followed to ensure that nutritious and well-balanced meals are provided)
• easy access to a public school in York Region on foot or by public transit or school bus

All homestay hosts will be interviewed and homes will be visited. Police check will be required.

For more information, contact homestay@yrdsb.edu.on.ca