WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) — This holiday season brings a reason to host a Boiler. 

Purdue University is seeking residents, faculty and staff to take in a student for the upcoming holidays. For many students, this could be their only opportunity to experience a family gathering.

Campus leaders are looking for people to host a meal or take a student to a community event. Freshman Gabriela Feldberg is from Brazil. She said this experience can be beneficial beyond just a meal.

“In my culture at least, we don't have Thanksgiving so for me it's like a first and I feel like having a family that does it every year also makes you feel closer to your home,” said Feldberg.

Victor Giacoma is a freshman from Honduras. He said it can be hard for international students to travel home, especially for Thanksgiving.

"Every year we have a Thanksgiving dinner with my family and I'm going to miss that this year because I will stay here so I would definitely be glad to join that program because I think it will make me feel like home,” said Giacoma.

Last year, 57 families took in a total of 150 Purdue students and scholars.

Hosting Dates:
Thanksgiving Break Nov. 28 - 30
Winter Break Dec. 14 - 28

If you’re interested in hosting a student, contact friendship@purdue.edu. The deadline for Thanksgiving break is Nov. 18 and the deadline for Winter Break is Dec. 12, or until every student is matched.