Thanksgiving Hosts Sought For United Nations Guests

WESTPORT — The International Hospitality Committee of Fairfield County invites area residents to open up their holiday homes to host individuals or families of international students, United Nations diplomats, mission representatives, and staff members who are far from home. UN visitors working in New York on behalf of world peace and students, including Fulbright scholars, greatly appreciate sharing a gathering in an American home and taking part in Thanksgiving traditions.

This year’s guests will represent many countries, including delegate families from Hungary, Bangladesh, Fiji, Colombia, and the United Kingdom. Among the international students studying humanities, business, education, and science are scholars from Germany, Japan, and Taiwan. Many delegate families and students are living in a large city environment for the first time and savor their visits to Connecticut suburbs.

Last Thanksgiving Westporter Joyce Schneider and her family hosted United Nations guests from Israel, France, and Japan. Delighted with their experience, they and other host families encourage Fairfield County neighbors to participate in the Thanksgiving hospitality program to meet new friends and share diverse cultures.

To sign up to host a family or individuals, or for more information, please contact Wilton representatives Mary Marquardt at 203/762-7232 or Christine Bukowski at 203/761-8826.