MiLEAP Expands MI Tri-Share Child Care Program to Support More Working Families

New Eligibility Increase to 400% of the Federal Poverty Limit Will Put Money Back in Michiganders’ Pockets, Help More Families Access Affordable Child Care

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) has expanded access to public-private child care cost-sharing for more working families across the state through the MI Tri-Share Child Care program. Families with household incomes up to 400% of the federal poverty limit (FPL) – about $128,600 for a family of four – are now eligible to participate in MI Tri-Share through their employer.

“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. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “By expanding MI Tri-Share, we’re 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.”

Launched in 2021, MI Tri-Share is a nationally recognized, bipartisan initiative that splits the cost of licensed child care equally between the state, the employer and the employee. Since its launch, the program has expanded from three regions to serving families in every Michigan county, helping to reduce financial barriers to care while supporting employers and providers in building a stronger workforce. A recent program evaluation found that all stakeholders – employers, employees, and child care providers – find the program beneficial and encouraged increasing access to include more working families. In response, beginning May 1, MI Tri-Share's maximum household income eligibility has expanded from 325% FPL to 400% FPL.

“Child care is essential for a thriving workforce and strong communities,” said Emily Laidlaw, deputy director of Early Education at MiLEAP. “Expanding Mi Tri-Share means more Michigan families, businesses and communities will benefit from a program that truly works for everyone.”

More than 250 Michigan employers currently participate in MI Tri-Share, serving over 800 families and nearly 1,000 children statewide, resulting in total family savings of over $8.6 million in child care costs since the start of the program. This eligibility expansion reflects the state’s continued commitment to lead the way in innovative solutions that support working families.

“As an employer, we are committed to investing in our people and we recognize that the lack of high-quality, affordable childcare is one of the greatest barriers to attracting and retaining top talent,” said Kenyatta Brame, executive vice president of Cascade Engineering. “We offer good-paying, meaningful jobs, but without access to reliable childcare, many qualified individuals are unable to take advantage of these opportunities. The Tri-Share initiative is an investment designed to break down that barrier. By opening the door to vital childcare resources, we are creating a pathway for more families to thrive and for our workforce to grow stronger. It’s not just good for employees—it’s smart business.”

Learn more about MI Tri-Share at MiLEAP’s Office of Early Education webpage.