Shinshinim Host Family Interest Form

Dear Prospective Host Family,

We are so grateful that you have decided to consider hosting a Shinshin (Israeli Young Emissary) in your home. Hosting has proved to be a wonderful experience for more than 20 years; benefiting the Shinshin, the host family, and our local Jewish community.

Below are some guidelines about hosting for you to review and consider; as well as, the Host Family Application. Once it is complete and submitted we will call to make arrangements to meet in person to further discuss the program and the role of the host family.

Throughout the application, there will be questions related to Jewish home observances, language, pets, allergies, etc. Know that there are no "right" or "wrong" answers. We are looking for ALL types of homes.

We plan for each Shinshin to stay with two host families throughout the year. Please be aware that - in order to ensure the best placements on all sides - we can not guarantee which Shinshin you will host.

 

1. The Shinshinim will be placed in warm, loving, Jewish homes of all types.

2. Family members should have time to dedicate to spending with the Shinshin. Regular family meals and activities are very important.

3. Consider your family’s schedule and when you are available to include the Shinshin as part of your family. The Shinshin will be VERY busy and involved in the community but the host family experience is a VERY important component of the mission of the program. The Shinshin will have a day off to spend with the family either on Saturday or Sunday and will generally be home/available during the evenings at dinner time.

4. The Shinshin MUST have a dedicated bedroom that is not used for other family needs (the family computer, the family TV, tutoring, etc.) during their stay in your home. It is preferred that the bedroom be a guest room or other unoccupied space so that he or she is not displacing a member of the family. Additional private space, such as a bathroom or living area is a plus, but not required.