LANSING — The MI Tri-Share Child Care Pilot Program has expanded to seven new facilitator hubs in pilot regions across Michigan, expanding access to the Upper Peninsula, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said.

In recent budget recommendations, Whitmer included $2.5 million to continue support for this program that increases access to child care through a collaboration that leverages both state and business support.

“Expanding access to high-quality, affordable child care will help every kid succeed from day one and help parents get back to work knowing that their kids are safe and cared for,” said Whitmer.

Each facilitator hub serves as an intermediary between employers, families and child care providers, and provides overall program management.

The new facilitator hubs include Marquette-Alger RESA serving all the Upper Peninsula.

Through Tri-Share, the cost of child care is shared equally by an eligible employee, their employer and the state, with coordination being provided regionally by a facilitator hub.

Since its launch in March 2021, the Tri-Share program has gained momentum, garnering significant interest and a recent $800,000 investment by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to help fund further expansion.

“Families living in rural areas face unique child care challenges,” said Lyndsay Carey, director of Early Childhood Education at Marquette-Alger RESA. “Tri-Share is a program that helps families, children and employers alike. We’re excited to welcome it to the Upper Peninsula where even more Michiganders can take advantage.”

Details about the Tri-Share program can be found at michigan.gov/Tri-Share.