Hosting Guide
Thank you for considering hosting displaced individuals and families fleeing from the war in Ukraine (referred to hereafter as ‘your guests’). This guide will help you understand how to have a positive hosting experience.
Communication with Prospective Guests
Communication before your guests arrive is essential. Connecting virtually (call, email, video) will help you sense if the prospective newcomers are a good match for you.
While you want your guests to feel welcome, it is important that you are also completely comfortable with the arrangement. You can decide what you can offer, such as how many people you can accommodate and for how long.
Financial Considerations
Some host families are prepared to have guests stay for a short period of time without compensation. However, if you are hosting for longer periods you may request to have your guests contribute towards actual costs such as food or utilities. Work these details out in advance and ensure they are understood by everyone prior to your guests’ arrival.
Create a Household Agreement
Details of schedules (for showers, laundry, meals, etc.), house rules (can they invite someone over? Are pets permitted? Do you allow smoking, etc) and financial considerations should be prepared in writing.
It is recommended to clarify in both languages and have this signed by both parties. A copy should be shared with your guests to avoid confusion and prevent any misunderstandings.
Creating a Welcoming Household Community
Consider treating your guests like one of the family. Let them know they are welcome to join in family activities, if they would like to do so. This will help them feel welcome, and make the experience more rewarding for you, as well.
Your guest has experienced loss and trauma; they may be homesick and lonely. A gentle, understanding space will help them to relax and adjust in your home. They may need some time alone, and will appreciate your compassion and sensitivity.
Conversations Matter
Your guests may speak only a limited amount of English, but don’t let that prevent regular conversations! It will mean a lot if your guests see your interest in what is going on in their lives, and share details from your own. The more you get to know each other, the more meaningful the experience will be on both sides!
Google Translate is a simple, free app to overcome language barriers. Don’t worry if messages are occasionally misunderstood, or if there are hand gestures and frustrations now and then. Ask for clarification when it’s needed. Your willingness to keep the lines of communication open and work through those minor issues will go a long way!
Stay Connected with Support
You will be assigned a Contact Person from Miramichi Supports Ukraine who will support you with any issues. Stay in touch with them! They will also enjoy hearing positive experiences and updates
Criminal Record Check
MSU is required to request a criminal record check from hosts. Please do not be offended by this; it is a standard practice. As a volunteer, there will be no cost to you.
Ukrainian Culture Notes
Ukrainian culture is generally open and direct. Please don’t mistake the tendency of ‘plain speaking’ as meant to convey any disrespect. It can also be true that expressions may seem neutral at times, compared to what you are used to. Again, these are cultural traits that do not signify a lack of feeling.
Keeping this in mind will help prevent misunderstandings if, for example, you fail to see a pleased or appreciative response for things done or provided. Just because feelings may not be shown, do not assume they are not felt!
Settlement
When your guests first arrive in Miramichi, there are a number of tasks to complete (ie. applying for a SIN and Medicare card). MSU will provide a volunteer to complete these settlement duties. Hosts are not responsible for these tasks.