A special dinner with family and friends, tobogganing, ice skating or watching a classic Christmas movie are just some events that many Brock Univeristy community members enjoy every holiday season. For a growing number of international students at Brock, the time of year can be difficult as they remain in Canada and away from their loved ones.

“For many students, the increased cost of travel makes the journey home unaffordable,” said Sandra Gruosso, Associate Director of Brock International Services.

The Home for the Holidays program helps place international students with Brock faculty or staff over the winter break. The goal is to ensure no student has to spend the festive season alone.

Brock International Services feels a “sense of responsibility” to ensure all students have an enjoyable winter break, said Gruosso.

“Students have come to Brock from thousands of miles away and entrusted us with their experience,” she said. “As Canadians, and members of the Brock community, we should all open our hearts and homes during the holiday season.”

The Home for the Holidays program brings the Brock community together by connecting a host and an international student for a traditional family event.

“There’s a lot of flexibility, which will make it easier for everyone to participate,” said Gruosso.

Faculty and staff interested in hosting an international student during the holiday break, taking place Dec. 20 to Jan. 5, are invited to attend an information session on Wednesday, Nov. 27 from noon to 1 p.m. in WH 305.

Registration is not required and attending the information session is not a prerequisite to participate in the program.

For more information or to register as a host, please visit the program’s website.