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Christmas with Portuguese Families
A Project by Erasmus Student Network Portugal
About the Project
Christmas in Portugal is a time of joy, family gatherings, and deep-rooted customs that have been passed down through generations. From the glowing lights and nativity scenes to the delicious holiday feasts and heartfelt gift-giving, each tradition carries a special meaning and contributes to the magical atmosphere of the season. "Christmas with Portuguese Families" is an Erasmus Student Network Portugal project with the goal of connecting local Portuguese families with international students during the holidays, providing a warm and festive experience for those who might otherwise spend the holidays alone.
Key Objectives
Cultural Exchange
The initiative promotes cultural exchange by allowing international students to immerse themselves in Portuguese customs, traditions, and family life during Christmas. Students get to experience traditional Portuguese Christmas foods, participate in family gatherings, and observe local customs.
Community Building
It fosters a sense of community and belonging for international students, making them feel more integrated into the local society. It also allows Portuguese families to learn about different cultures and create international connections.
Memorable Experience
For many students, this experience can be one of the highlights of their time abroad, creating lasting memories and friendships.
How can I join?
If you’d like to participate in this year’s edition of “Christmas with Portuguese Families” please read these guidelines and sign up for it through this link!
For the matching process we will be using an app called Papaya! You can access Papaya through this link or by downloading the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
For more information regarding registration in the app, please read these guidelines! The registrations for 2024 are open between 31st of October to the 1st of December 2024!
The matching process will be based on the availability, location, spoken languages and food preferences of the international students and the Portuguese families signing-up.
How can I support this project?
1. Portuguese Families
Portuguese families are the backbone of this project and are essential to create a cultural exchange experience for all the international students who stay in their city of mobility during the Christmas holidays. This initiative is perfect for families who want to promote the sharing and acceptance of different cultures and customs and are happy to welcome with open arms another person in their home during the holidays!
2. International Students
The main goal of this project is to offer international students a warm and festive experience by inviting them to spend Christmas with local Portuguese families. This helps alleviate the loneliness that students might feel being away from their home countries and families during the holidays.
3. Higher Education Institutions
Higher Education Institutions play a vital role in developing a dynamic and inclusive environment for students! Your support in promoting this project within the higher education community would greatly enhance its impact:
- Information Dissemination: Share the project announcement you receive in your inbox and all the relevant documents (booklet) within your academic circles, encouraging students and staff to participate.
- Facilitating Registrations: Please share the form links with your international and local communities to facilitate registrations.
4. Commercial Partners
We are always open to establish collaborations with commercial partners that would work with us in providing compelling initiatives for Portuguese families to join the project. Potential proposals include establishing partnerships with entities willing to provide exclusive Christmas discounts or a food basket to registered families. Please see our Partners Booklet for more information.
The goal is to not only enhance the appeal of the project but also express appreciation for the families' involvement, fostering a stronger sense of community engagement during the holiday season. If you are interested in supporting this project as a commercial partner please contact us directly at treasurer@esnportugal.org.
Project History
In 2023, the feedback from participating Portuguese Families stated that 79% enjoyed participating in this project and 96% would participate again. While for International Students, 83% enjoyed participating in this project and 89% would participate again.
We work hard each year to implement new strategies to improve the feedback received from both participating families and students!
CONTACT US!
If you require any further information or have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to contact us directly at board@esnportugal.org or secretary@esnportugal.org.
Help us make this project even better this year!
ESN Portugal