Becoming A Host Family: What You Need To Know
Download the 2010 Application here.
The children assisted by Solace For The Children are from Afghanistan. Many of the children have families, and most are selected on the basis of medical needs. During his or her stay, each child receives a medical examination, as well as dental and optical exams, and follow-up treatment as needed.
In addition to physical limitations, careful consideration is given to the region and tribe of origin each child represents. In a non-threatening environment kids from warring tribes learn to see each other as individuals, and even become friends. This can only help the peace process when they return home.
What Is Expected From A Host Family?
Host families are a vital part of our program. As a host, you would be expected to:
- Provide a child with room and board in a secure, loving, home for six weeks
- Arrange to have an adult available at all times to supervise the child during his or her stay in your home
- Accompany the child to medical appointments for physical, dental and optical exams, as well as any necessary follow-up visits
- Interact with other host families on a regular basis
Host families are not expected to take the children on expensive shopping trips or shower them with extravagant gifts. While the child is here, he or she should be treated as a member of your family, with the same privileges and responsibilities as your own children.
A mandatory medical screening will be scheduled with area pediatricians, dentists and eye doctors the first week of the children's stay. A host parent is expected to accompany the child to the screenings and remain there until all examinations scheduled for that child have been completed. If additional treatment is necessary the child will be referred to a local physician for the follow-up medical/dental care. The host family will be responsible for scheduling these follow-up visits. Also, an interpreter must be present at each appointment to assist physicians. Families will need to work with the Interpreter Coordinator to schedule time with an interpreter.
What Can Host Families Expect From Solace For The Children?
Hosting a child is a rewarding but demanding undertaking. Solace For The Children helps to support host families by:
- Recruiting medical professionals to donate their services
- Arranging access to a local clothing closet for the children
- Arranging weekly opportunities for the children to get together
- Soliciting donations of discount coupons and passes from area businesses
How Old Are The Children?
The children range in age from 7 to 15 years of age.
Will My Child Speak English?
Probably not, though depending on their age, some of the children may study English in school and know some basic English words and phrases. Also, the children travel with adult chaperone/interpreters who will be readily available to help with communication difficulties, and many local interpreters are willing to help out. It is not as hard as it sounds - smiles and gestures can go a long way. And remember an interpreter will be just a phone call away!
What Are The Housing Requirements For The Children?
Host families will need to provide a comfortable space where the child can sleep and an adequate place to keep his or her belongings. The visiting child may share a room with a same gender child from his or her host family; however, the visiting child should have his or her own bed.
What Are The Children Like?
They are much like your own children. Each has his or her own personality with particular likes and dislikes. Most of the children will not have serious health problems, although many will have conditions to be addressed by medical professionals.
Preventive dental care is practically unheard of Afghanistan. Any dental repair is often performed without the aid of anesthetics. Most of the visiting children will have cavities and need extensive dental work. The interpreters can help you make them feel as comfortable as possible with the dentist.
Can We Take The Child On Vacation With Our Family?
Yes, as long as you remain in the continental United States. The children love to go on vacations just like Americans do. Just be sure to tell the Summer Program Coordinator when and where you are going any time you take an overnight trip, and how you can be reached in case of an emergency.
Are They Christian?
The children will be moderate Muslims. All families or guardians of the children are aware that their children will be staying in Christian homes. While the children will accompany the host during the regular activities of the family, the host should demonstrate great respect for the religious traditions and beliefs of the Afghan children. The Solace for the Children Host Family Manual will help guide host families to understand the similarities and differences in our traditions.
What Happens If The Child Needs Emergency Medical Attention Or Is Injured?
Solace For The Children purchases an emergency medical insurance policy for each child. (If paying the insurance plan's deductible creates a financial burden on the host family, the family should request help from their sponsoring church.) Use common sense and treat your visiting child the same as you would your own child in the same situation. If you would take your own child to the doctor, take your visiting child to the doctor. You will find that many medical professionals are more than willing to donate their services, but you will want to check with your family physician in advance of the child's arrival.
How Do I Become A Host Family?
Begin by filling out the Host Family Application and returning it to Solace For The Children at the address on the application. The information you provide will be strictly confidential. Solace For The Children will check for criminal records and talk to the personal references you provide. After your application has been received, you will be contacted to arrange a convenient time for a confidential, in-home interview with the Summer Program Coordinator and one other Board Member. Among the goals of this meeting is to ensure that all family members understand what will be expected of them, as well as answer any questions they may have.
You will be notified in writing within three weeks of your in-home interview of your status as a host family. Completing the application process is not a guarantee that you will host.
Download the 2010 Host Application here.
- FIND US ON FACEBOOK -