Host Family Needed for Student from Czech Republic

A host family is desperately needed for a student from the Czech Republic whose original American Field Services (AFS) host family was forced to drop out due to a health emergency.

Michael is 16-years-old and was set to enroll at Salem High School for the 2015-16 school year. He is scheduled to arrive in the United States on August 12, and Salem High has confirmed his enrollment.

AFS is looking for a host family who can take in Michael for all, or even part, of the school year. Preferably, it would be a Salem family with school-age children and no pets.

Michael is focused on his studies and enjoys competing in academic Olympics in the areas of math, physics, chemistry, and geography, according to AFS officials.

He plays table tennis competitively and also enjoys soccer and track and field.

AFS families come in all shapes and sizes – from individuals to large foster families. Students bring their own spending money and medical coverage while host families provide food, a bed, and the same care and support they would give their own children.

“If you have ever considered hosting a student for six months, an academic year, or even 8-12 weeks as a welcome family, please let this be the time you reach out to share your community with an AFS student,” said Amy Gerhard of AFS. “If you are unable host at this time, please do everything you can to find a family who will host. We need your help to find as many families as possible, and especially one for Michael.”

If you or anyone you know is interested in hosting an AFS student this year, or if you would like to know how you can help AFS at this time, please contact Gerhard right at (646) 381-3304 or (401) 318-0061 and agerhard@afsusa.org.