For over twenty years, we have been connecting Czech families with families of foreigners from various corners of the world. The recipe? Simple! Unforgettable gatherings at a dining table filled with flavors, aromas, and above all, stories. A shared lunch between two families who have never met before often ends in lifelong friendships. In short, food is a universal language.
- This year’s edition will connect Czech families with families of foreigners from so-called third countries (including holders of temporary protection and international protection with legal residence status in the Czech Republic).
- In previous years, families from countries such as Syria, India, Belarus, Turkey, Egypt, Libya, Iran, Algeria, Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, Vietnam, Mongolia, and even New Zealand participated alongside Czech families.
- Thanks to its unique approach to integrating foreigners, the project has expanded to other European countries and, in 2011, it was awarded the SozialMarie prize, which is given annually to 15 exceptional projects in the field of social innovation.
- Since 2004, over 1,800 families—more than 5,000 people in total—have met for a shared meal through this project.
EXPERIENCE A DIFFERENT KIND OF LUNCH WITH THE FAMILY NEXT DOOR!
APPLICATION FORM
What does a shared lunch look like?
That's for you to decide. It's up to you whether you want to host the other family in your home, or whether you would like to come to the other family's home for lunch. However, we will always have an assistant available to make sure it runs smoothly. And can help to break any initial shyness.
When will we meet for lunch?
That is entirely up to mutual agreement. Unlike previous years, families across the Czech Republic won’t meet on one specific day and time but can plan their shared lunch for any date that suits them. However, it must take place before the end of 2024. All communication will go through us. Once you apply, we will contact you to arrange a date that works for both families.
How do we apply to The Family Next Door?
Simple - fill in the online form, where you will provide your basic information and choose whether you want to be a host family or visit another family. The form also allows us to learn important details, such as food allergies, to avoid any unpleasant situations during the meal.
Why a shared lunch?
Because we believe that food brings people together. At The Family Next Door gatherings, participants not only eat but also share stories, traditions, experiences, and even recipes. These meetings often create new friendships and connect people with common interests, which is exactly our goal—breaking down prejudices through friendship. That’s the reason behind The Family Next Door.
Who covers the food costs?
We do! All food expenses are covered by the project. Hosts only need to provide receipts, which we will reimburse.
