Families & Hosts
Hosting a SWSE participant is an opportunity to welcome a young person into your family, share everyday life in your community, and be part of their six-week exchange experience.
SWSE provides support throughout the program to help make hosting a positive experience for both youth and families.
Who Can Host
Host families come in many different forms. To help provide a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families must meet a few program requirements.
During the six-week exchange:
- An adult must be home overnight.
- Anyone over the age of 18 living in the home must consent to a police records check.
- At least one person living in the home must have at least a basic level of English.
- Families in more rural communities may be expected to help with transportation to and from program activities.
You don't need previous hosting experience or skills in the participant's second official language to become a host.
What To Expect as a Host
The program runs as a result of families who are willing to open their homes and share their lives with youth participants. Host families often gain insights into new aspects of Canadian culture and different belief systems, and build lifelong friendships.
There is no expectation that families occupy youth during the weekdays, act as a “tour guide” for youth, or have pre-existing skills in the second official language.
Participants work full-time during the week and program activities are planned for one weeknight plus Saturday and Sundays. The only exception is the first weekend in August which we set aside as time for youth and host families to spend together.
Staff will visit host families at least twice during the program and are always available by email or phone for guidance and support.
Support For Accessible Hosting
We want hosting to be accessible to as many families as possible. Families are encouraged to talk with local SWSE staff about their needs, expectations, questions, or concerns.
Depending on a family's circumstances, SWSE has previously provided support such as:
- Financial assistance for food when needed
- Help finding an extra bed for an incoming participant
- Translation and communication support
- Carpooling support for families with limited or no access to transportation
If something may make hosting difficult for your family, talk to us. Our team can discuss what support may be available.