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The Fort Frances Lakers are sorting out their housing needs.

It means a need for billet families for players coming in from out of town.

Billet Coordinator Sarah Kivimaki says the exact number is uncertain, but they know they are going to need as many as possible.

“Our camp is from September 9th to 11th. Any signed players before that would need to be placed in the bill at home for camp. Other players coming in for the camp have their own accommodations taken care of by themselves. After camp, we need homes for any signed players,” says Kivimaki.

The team currently has five available homes for the seven players now signed. That leaves about 13 to 15 others spots available, many likely to be filled by players from out of town needing housing during the season.

Kivimaki says billet families offer that home away from home for players.

There are some expectations of participating families.

“You provide them with a warm home, a caring family, and a hot meal per day. Then they just have access to your fridge and pantry for breakfast and lunch,” says Kivimaki. “It does differ per family, and it’s all about the organization of your household. They just kind of fit right in and follow the house rules that way.”

Kivimaki says there are curfews set by the coaching staff and the billing coordinator. Follow-up is done by team officials.

Each billet family receive $500 each month from the player, a season pass and invites to special events. There are also plans for some monthly draws.

Kivimaki’s family took in two players last year.

“They were strangers for an instant second, and then they are family. It was such a rewarding experience for us. We look forward to doing it again this year,” says Kivimaki. “If you’re on the fence about it, give me a call because I can talk you into it, and I know it will be a wonderful experience for both the player that you bill it and your family.”

Call 275-6991 if you would like to lend a hand.