[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/holidayslogo08.jpg” caption=”Jointly run by the Off-Campus Experience office and Residence Admissions, A Home for the Holidays helps international students who can’t make it home over the break find temporary residence with someone who can offer a room.”]Alix Nori doesn't think anyone should have to spend the holidays alone – that's why she got involved with the A Home for the Holidays program.

Jointly run by the Off-Campus Experience office and Residence Admissions, A Home for the Holidays helps international students who can't make it home over the break find temporary residence with someone who can offer a room.

“I want to make sure that everyone has a place to stay over Christmas because I wouldn't ever want to be alone for the holidays,” said Nori, who is participating in the program for the first time. “If someone can't make it home, then hopefully my house will be a good substitute.”

The program's website provides a forum for connecting off-campus students like Nori with students in residence who need short-term lodging, as campus residences close over the break. Users must register with the Off-Campus Experience office, and all postings are pre-screened.

“Off-campus students can feel the spirit of the holiday season knowing that they have helped a fellow student,” said Trish Sullivan, residence admissions manager. “And students normally in residence benefit from being able to stay in the familiar local community.”

If you are a student living in residence looking for a place to stay over the holidays, or are an off-campus student with a room available to a student in need, check out the A Home for the Holidays website.