Christmas International House - Harrisburg, PA matches students attending colleges and universities in the United States with a couple or a family in the United States to allow the students to experience a continental Christmas and activities. We open our hearts and our homes to the students over the holiday break, usually from about a week prior until January 2nd. Please consider sharing your holiday traditions by making "room at the inn," and meet new friends. Optional group activities are also planned.

90% of international college students studying in the U.S. never get invited into an American home. This is a special opportunity for fun and fellowship, cultural exchange, hospitality and peacemaking!!!

Why do students want to spend Christmas with strangers?

• Their homes are very far away, so going home may not be an option
• This may be their first time to be this far from family and friends
• They may want to share an American Christmas
• They may want to practice their English
• They may want to visit a different part of the U.S.

All of the above – and more!

If you would like to host but have a logistical problem, call the “CIH Mom” listed below to talk about your situation. Maybe we can find a solution. We don’t want to turn students away who want to come here.

What if I can’t host but I want to help in some other way?

• You could provide “emergency housing” or “part-time hosting” for a host with a conflict
• You could host one or more students for a day trip to Philadelphia, Baltimore or other destination of your choice
• You could provide transportation for one or more students during their visit
• You could help to underwrite one of the bus trips, International Dinner or other event

Please contact the “CIH Mom” listed below to talk about the possibilities!

To ask a question or get more information, contact the “CIH Mom”:

Bonnie McCann “CIH Mom”
CIH - Harrisburg Program Director

Fran Moore
CIH - National Board of Directors

Jen Briggs
CIH - Support