• Host Homes

    The Host Home program is a crucial part of Thrive College. In short, Bayside families open a spare bedroom (and fridge) to a Thrive College student for a school year. Many of our students are only financially able to pursue their ministry goals because of the generosity of Host families.
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Host Information

At the root of Thrive College, Host Homes are the reason the program is able to run at it's fullest capacity. Host Homes are also the reason why hundreds of students have been able to grow and have an impact in the Kingdom of God.

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Student Information

If you’re coming to Thrive College from out of town, you’ll be provided with a Host Family from Bayside Church during the school year. These families are specially reviewed and selected through our Host Home Program. They support and believe in the mission of Thrive College, are committed to Jesus, and will provide a stable living space for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to commonly asked questions

Hosting Questions

What does a Host Home provide?
  • A separate bedroom for the student (although two students can share a room, with separate beds in the room)
  • A bathroom (students can share a bathroom with other family members)
  • Access to a washer and dryer
  • Access to a kitchen and stocked pantry so that the students can pack lunches and have snacks at home  (Students will need food for making their meals at home or for packing their lunches.)
  • Space for each student to park their car

Do students have their own transportation?
Students are responsible for their own transportation. In the rare case a student does not have a car, they are placed with another student who they will carpool with. The host home is never asked to drive a student.
What is expected of me as a Host Home?

Our students are adults (Generally 18-25 years old). The goal of the Host Home is to provide a safe, independent living environment for the students, so they can pursue ministry, discipleship, and college classes. Our expectations of a HostHome are: a Christ centered home, an open room, food available for the student, and honest communication.

How are students matched?

Every home, as well as every student, have an in person interview by our staff. The students and homes go through a matching process where our staff gets to know who them. Both the students and the homes fill out forms that answer questions that help with placement. The process includes multiple staff, many layers, and much prayer to determine the best fit for the home and for the student.

Will I be informed of which student we were matched with?
Yes! Prior to the student moving in, there is a host home orientation. This is a time where the host homes get to ask questions and get an idea of expectations for the year. Prior to this orientation, the students will be matched and you will notified by email (with specific details of your student) as well as a phone call to confirm that you did have a match.
I have more questions...

Don't hesitate to reach out. We would love to answer all your questions!


Maryjane Fox
Host Home Director

Student Questions

What does my Host Home provide?
  • A separate bedroom! Although you might be sharing a bedroom with a two separate beds.
  • A bathroom. You may be sharing a bathroom with other family members.
  • Access to a washer and dryer
  • Access to a kitchen and stocked pantry so that you can prepare meals for yourself.
  • Parking spot for your sweet ride

Do I need my own transportation?

You are responsible for your own transportation. If you are unable to provide your own transportation please inform your recruiter, so that we can match you with another student that can help. The host home is never asked to drive a student.

Can I live at home if I'm local?

Yes, you can live at home! Currently local students do not receive host homes. For more information regarding living locally please email Maryjane Fox.

How will I be matched with a home?

Every home, just like every student has an in person interview by our staff. The students and homes go through a matching process where our staff gets to know who them. Both the students and the homes fill out forms that answer questions that help with placement. The process includes multiple staff, many layers, and much prayer to determine the best fit for the home and for the student.

How long will I live my Host Home?

You will be notified who your host home is as well as a date for move-in weeks prior to your arrival. You are expected to live in your host home for the length of the program (9 months). Please plan accordingly and respectfully.

What are the student expectations while in a Host Home?

The expectations are similar to if you were a guest in someone’s home; connect with the family, clean up after yourself and be respectful of the home’s expectations and boundaries.