Host Families Needed For Chinese Students This Summer

A program that connects children across continents is looking for host families to welcome students into their home.

The Amherst Middle School will be hosting a cultural exchange program for 30 Chinese students, sponsored by Spiral International, from July 3-15.

The students attend an intercultural camp during the week from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for activities and field strips. They will spend time with their host families and others on the weekend.

Spiral International Amherst needs 16 families top open their homes for these students, who range in age from 12 to 16. The students are housed two in each home.

Co-director Linda Farrington said that they still need ten more families to sign up before the program begins.

The goal of Spiral International  is to engage young people from China and America in experiences that allow them to enjoy each others’ company and learn firsthand about the culture of each country.

The twelve day visit creates new friendships, fond memories and clear understanding of life between both countries. In the past, student have gone to Harvard University, Kimball Fruit Farm, the State House in Concord and a hike up Pack Mondadnock. Host families are invited to join in these activities.

To volunteer or receive more information, please contact Host Family Coordinator Robin Merrifield at 603-673-9260 or robinmerrifield@yahoo.com.

Co-director Linda Farrington can be reached at 603-554-7203 or lfarrington@sprise.com. Co-director Deb Curran can be reached at dcurran@sprise.com.