It sounds like a derivation of 'first footing' in the UK. First person in the house on New years day, usualy just after midnight, brings items symbolic of food, fuel and money so they will not be in short supply for the following year. In our case it usualy coal, bread, and coins. Traditionaly it should also be a stranger brings them in. Perhaps your hostess leaves them on the step in case a stranger in the know passes by and brings them in for her?

I will ask my Dad though. He is Polish/Russian studied German and also spent some time with Gypsies!

Cheers

DtG