WELCOME TO
HOME AWAY FROM HOME:
THE FRIENDSHIP PROGRAM!
Our goal is to help international students develop meaningful friendships
with Canadian families
INTERNATIONAL
STUDENTS
New to Canada and looking for friendships? Here are some more details about our program!
CANADIAN
FAMILIES
Canadians! Here’s your chance to learn more about becoming a “Home Away From Home” friendship family to international students.
MEET THE TEAM
We're a Calgarian team that's passionate about helping international students connect with families across Canada.
Send us an email if you'd like to help volunteer in the movement!

KELLY JOHNSON
HAFH Program Co-Director
Kelly has served as a chaplain at the University of Calgary for 25 years. His love of diversity in the people and places of our world has sparked him to be an enthusiastic champion for this friendship program and helping provide hospitality to international students.
STORIES

“Without doubt, HAFH is a valuable, meaningful program especially for newly-arrived international students like me.
"I strongly recommend that new students take the opportunity to experience the rewarding journey during the time of their study.”
Marshal
PhD Engineering Student, 2015

“When I first came here, I didn’t know any Canadian people. I felt so lonely. It was then I came across this program… the family they connected me with is so nice that I was so eager to meet them often! In their family, I could see how they live and enjoyed life! Being connected to a Canadian family, has given me much more than I expected!”
Ming
MCS Student, 2012

"Amy has gone back to China. We had a wonderful time together. I went to her grad and met her mom. It was all very touching and I’m a much better person for having met her."
Candace
Home Family, 2012

"I always consider them [Alister & Beulah] as my grandparents as they treat me and care about me like their grandson. They always try to introduce new people to me and improve my network here. I am absolutely delighted to attend this program and I will strongly recommend all international students to register."
Mehrshad
Environmental Engineering Student, 2017