International students seek host families in Salinas

Salinas families are needed to host foreign students who will be attending Alisal High, Everett Alvarez, North Salinas High, and Salinas High.

Ayusa is a non-profit that matches high school foreign exchange students with host families in the United States. Ayusa’s international exchange students are 15-18 years old and come from more than 60 countries around the world. All students are fully insured, bring their own spending money, and are proficient in English.

There is no “typical” host family and Ayusa welcomes all interested families, with or without children, from both urban and rural communities. Host families provide three meals a day and a bedroom (either private or shared). Each student is supported by a professionally trained community representative from Ayusa who works with the family, student and local school for the entire program. All host families must pass a criminal background check and home visit from an Ayusa representative before being eligible to host.

Families interested in learning more about hosting a foreign exchange student can call 1-888-552-9872 or click here.