NGOs have from 24 April-25 May to apply to the Integration Foundation for support in the amount of 15,000-50,000 euros to enable young people with mother tongues other than Estonian to study the national language by staying with Estonian families with children their own age this summer.
NGOs registered in Estonia which are prepared to organise home stays with Estonian families lasting from 10-12 days for youngsters between the ages of 7 and 19 whose mother tongue is a language other than Estonian can apply to the Integration Foundation for financial support.
“Everyday Estonian and the everyday habits of Estonians are something you only learn if you spend time with Estonians on a day-to-day basis,” said Jana Tondi, the head of language and cultural immersion with the Integration Foundation. “That’s why we’ve been bringing young people who don’t speak Estonian as their first language together with those who do in Estonian-speaking families for 20 years now with the help of NPOs. They get to spend a couple of weeks together in summer, finding out about the country’s history, enjoying cultural experiences, playing sport and lots more, all in Estonian.”
The Integration Foundation has been supporting Estonian language and culture studies in families and at camps since 1998. Almost 20,000 youngsters from all over the country have taken part in the projects.
“We’re hoping Estonian families will take in more than 200 youngsters this summer,” Tondi added. “That’s why we’re looking for NPOs first and foremost to bring together these families and youngsters, with financial support from the foundation. Once they’re in place, we’ll announce what the possibilities are for family stays this summer.”
NGOs have from 24 April-25 May 2019 to apply for support in the amount of 15,000-50,000 euros. “Detailed information can be found on our website www.integratsioon.ee/taotlusvoor-pereoppe-partnerorganisatsioonide-tegevustoetus and will be provided at information sessions being held on 10 & 14 May,” Tondi explained.
Family studies are funded by the Ministry of Culture.
PHOTOS
Family studies at Võrumaa region with participation of youngsters from Harjumaa and Ida-Virumaa regions.
