All of the students stay together in either a church building or retreat facility. The men and women have separate sleeping areas and shower facilities. Usually a common area is provided where students can play games, watch television, socialize and eat meals. Students are invited into the homes of church members for meals on Christmas and New Years. Home stay means you will be staying with a host family.
Some families enjoy hosting two or more students in their home.
Most families prefer to host only one student. The students participating in a home stay program will join in the daily activities of their host family. The programs also plan group activities for the students. The definition of family for the purpose of CIH refers to spouse and children, not the extended family. Participating groups include Presbyterian congregation, Methodist, Lutheran, Mennonite, and councils of churches.