Homeland Hopper to Bring Métis Culture, Programming, and Services Directly to Communities Across Alberta
Posted on: Aug 27, 2026
EDMONTON, August 27, 2026 – The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Children & Family Services Department is launching a new mobile outreach initiative designed to bring Métis culture, programming, and services directly to children, youth, families, and communities across Alberta.
The Homeland Hopper is a fully customized mobile outreach unit developed over more than three years to expand access to culturally grounded programming and strengthen connections among Métis Citizens, communities, and the land.
The Homeland Hopper will travel throughout the province, delivering a range of programming and engagement opportunities, including cultural activities, early learning experiences, land-based programming, family activities, and community events. By bringing programming directly into communities, the initiative is designed to reduce barriers to participation while creating meaningful opportunities for Citizens to connect with their Métis identity, culture, and one another.
“The Homeland Hopper is about bringing our government and our culture closer to our Citizens,” said Otipemisiwak Métis Government President, Andrea Sandmaier. “Our Citizens live in communities across Alberta, and we want to make sure they have meaningful opportunities to experience their culture, build connections, and participate in Métis programming wherever they call home.”
The Homeland Hopper made its official public debut during the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Citizens’ Gathering in Slave Lake.
The launch marks the culmination of more than three years of development and the beginning of a new approach to community outreach for the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
“Children and families deserve opportunities to learn, play, and connect with their Métis culture in ways that are accessible, welcoming, and meaningful,” said Children & Family Services Provincial Secretary, Brooke Bramfield. “The Homeland Hopper allows us to take those opportunities directly to communities. Whether it is an early learning activity, a cultural experience, a family event, or time spent on the land, we are creating spaces where our children and families can strengthen their sense of identity and belonging.”
Additional information about upcoming programming, community visits, and opportunities for Citizens to participate will be shared as implementation continues.
Media Contact
Kenny Trenton
Press Secretary, Otipemisiwak Métis Government
Email: ktrenton@metis.org