Moraine Valley Seeks Host Families For International Students

PALOS HILLS, IL — Learn about other countries while welcoming an international student into your home. Moraine Valley Community College’s International Student Affairs Department needs local residents to help integrate these students into the U.S. and provide a safe place for them to stay through the Host Home Program.

Hundreds of international students from such countries as Ireland, South Korea, Vietnam, Poland, Congo, Japan and Sweden enroll at Moraine Valley, and many are in host homes throughout the community. With more students expected at the college, many need a safe place to live and learn for a minimum of one semester. Students pay hosts a monthly fee determined by the college.

Living with a local family helps international students practice English, learn the American culture, acclimate to their new environment, and abate cultural shock and loneliness. Hosts also benefit by learning about another country, its language and culture, and contribute to the student’s success while building international relationships and helping them adjust to the new environment.

Community members can host more than one student but must own their own home, condo or property, have a washing machine and dryer, access to the internet, and a private bedroom available. The home should be within 15 minutes of walking to the college or near a Pace bus line (385, 381 or 379).

International students must follow the same Illinois COVID-19 mandates required for local students and must either be vaccinated or have weekly COVID-19 testing.

For more information on hosting an international student, email international-admissions@morainevalley.edu or call (708) 974-5443.