From host Family to global family: How international students build belonging in Sarnia

Sarnia host families are forging lasting global connections by welcoming international high school students into their homes through a Lambton Kent District School Board program. Partnering with Canada Homestay Network, these arrangements offer students belonging and families new perspectives, strengthening community ties in rural Ontario.

For Erin Barry and her family, opening their Sarnia home to international high school students began as a way to expose their own children to other cultures and foods. Four years later, it has become something larger: a web of relationships that stretches across continents and turns temporary guests into extended family.

Since partnering with Canada Homestay Network, the Barrys have welcomed nine students from Thailand, Italy, Spain, Australia, France, Germany and Greece.

"We wanted to learn and teach our children about different cultures, food, and build meaningful connections," Barry said.

The exchanges have reshaped daily life around the table. Italian desserts — tiramisu and panettone — are now Christmas Eve morning traditions. Authentic German homemade schnitzel ranks as one son's favourite meal.

One evening stands out. Students from several countries each prepared a signature dish from home. Before the meal, the group prayed together, each in their own language.

"Each student has truly become part of our family," Barry said. "It has opened the door to many return visits from our international kids and opportunities to travel to see them and their families as well."

The Lambton Kent District School Board runs the international education program that places many of these students. It welcomes approximately 100 international students each year from more than 20 countries, working with Canada Homestay Network to match them with local families.

"Our international education program prides itself on helping students feel like they’re part of the school, the community, and the family they live with," said Kirsten Ramsay, the board’s International Education Administrator. "We want every student to feel supported from the moment they arrive."

Students choose rural Ontario for the same reasons many host families open their doors: a welcoming atmosphere and a genuine Canadian experience, Ramsay said.

The students do not sit on the sidelines. They join sports teams, music programs, drama productions, clubs, leadership groups and volunteer activities, adding energy and new viewpoints to LKDSB classrooms and hallways.

"They're involved in every aspect of our schools," Ramsay said. "Whether it's drama, sports, band, leadership programs, or clubs, they're encouraged to participate and contribute."

Homestay arrangements place young people directly into neighbourhood rhythms — shared meals, school runs, weekend activities — in ways that differ from more independent post-secondary living. In Sarnia-Lambton, this personal layer of international education complements the larger economic and cultural role played by international students at Lambton College.

For host families, the rewards are immediate and lasting. The memories, Barry said, are incredible. When she considers what she would tell someone thinking about hosting, her answer is straightforward.

"This is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have," Barry said. "Be flexible and adapt. Help guide these teens, let them teach you, listen to them, and care about them."

Ramsay sees the same reciprocity at scale.

"It can be a mutually beneficial experience for both the family and the student," she said. "We've seen many families build lifelong friendships and global connections."

The hardest part, Barry added, never gets easier: saying goodbye.

Families interested in hosting international students through the program can find information at whyihost.ca.