Families for Japanese students sought

ORONO – Maine families have a chance to welcome a Japanese student into their home this summer through a monthlong University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H program.

“These young people are excited to learn about American family customs and culture, values, foods and lifestyles. They have a desire to learn about life in America and build on English skills,” said Jill Coffren of Jay, state coordinator of the program.

Host family applications and information are available from Coffren, 645-3248, or local county Extension offices. The deadline for applications is May 8.

Students coming to Maine range in age from 12 to 18 years old. They bring their own spending money and insurance. Host families do not need to be involved with 4-H.

“You just need a willingness to share your lives and your friendship with a young person from Japan,” said Coffren.

The program is open to families with children close in age to the Japanese students. Host families and students are matched based on similar interests.

Japanese students look forward to doing chores, learning games, shopping, trying new foods and sharing their culture with their host family. They arrive July 27 and depart Aug. 22. Japanese students who participate in a yearlong program also are available to families who can connect them to youth of similar age. They arrive in Maine in July, but depart at the end of the school year.

The Maine 4-H International Exchange Program is a youth development program of University of Maine Cooperative Extension. For information or to apply for the exchange program, call 581-3877.