Check if your employer provides child care assistance through the expanded ‘Tri-Share’ program in Michigan.

LANSING, Mich. — The State of Michigan has announced an expansion of its Mi Tri-Share Child Care Program, aimed at broadening access to affordable child care for working families. This strategic initiative is part of the Michigan Learning and Early Assessment Program (MiLEAP), which seeks to enhance opportunities for residents statewide.

The Tri-Share model divides child care costs among three parties: the state, employers, and employees. For families to benefit from the program, their household income must be below a specified threshold, and their employer must participate. This week’s expansion raises the eligibility limit significantly, now allowing families with incomes of up to 400% of the federal poverty level (FPL)—approximately 8,600 for a family of four—to qualify. Previously, the threshold was set at 325% of the FPL.

Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP, emphasized the importance of this initiative in improving financial stability for working families. “At MiLEAP, our mission is to expand access to opportunity for every Michigander, and that starts with supporting working families and advancing workforce development,” said Dr. Walker-Griffea. “By expanding MI Tri-Share, we are reducing the cost of licensed child care for working families, helping employers offer a competitive benefit to recruit and retain talent, and increasing the financial stability of child care providers throughout the state.” This approach aims to alleviate some of the financial pressures associated with child care, thereby fostering a healthier workforce environment.

Since its inception in 2021, the Tri-Share program has scaled from a pilot in three regions to a state-level initiative available in every county. Positive feedback from participating stakeholders—including employers, employees, and child care providers—has catalyzed this recent eligibility expansion. Currently, over 250 Michigan employers are involved in the program, assisting more than 800 families and nearly 1,000 children across the state. It is estimated that families have collectively saved over .6 million in child care expenses since the program commenced.

For those interested in exploring available child care resources, a list of participating Tri-Share employers can be accessed for Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon counties. Additionally, a comprehensive list of employers throughout Michigan can be found on the program’s website, where new employers can also learn how to become participants.

This program is particularly significant at a time when affordable child care is a growing concern for many families. By bridging the gap in child care funding and supporting working parents, Michigan’s Tri-Share initiative aligns closely with broader workforce development goals and the need for inclusive economic support systems.