Tri-Share Plus Program Launches in Northeast Indiana to Help Share Child Care Expenses

New Initiative in Northeast Indiana Addresses Rising Child Care Costs

A groundbreaking program in northeast Indiana seeks to alleviate the financial burden of child care for working families while also providing support to local businesses. The Tri-Share Plus initiative, launched by the Northeast Indiana Early Childhood Coalition with nearly million in funding, aims to create a balanced approach to child care financing. This innovative framework allows the costs of child care to be divided among three parties: employees, employers, and the Tri-Share Plus program itself.

Currently, eight employers have signed on to the Tri-Share Plus initiative, including prominent organizations such as the YMCA of DeKalb County, Adams Memorial Hospital, and Parkview Health. By participating in this program, these employers hope to enhance workforce retention and reduce financial pressures for their employees, who often face significant challenges related to child care expenses.

Allie Sutherland, the executive director of the Northeast Indiana Early Childhood Coalition, highlighted the potential impact of the program, noting that the first family enrolled can expect substantial savings of up to ,000 annually. “We understand how challenging the current economic climate is, with rising costs across health care, groceries, and transportation,” expressed Sutherland. “This program not only aids families but also benefits employers by helping them retain talent.”

The financial strain of child care in Indiana is significant, with the average monthly cost for infant care exceeding ,000. This figure represents more than 20% of the median income for families in the state. The ramifications of this financial burden extend beyond households; they also impact employers. A survey by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce revealed that 57% of parents with young children have had to miss work or school due to child care challenges. This absenteeism and the associated turnover have considerable economic repercussions, costing employers approximately billion annually.

To qualify for the Tri-Share Plus program, families must have children aged five years or younger, and their income must fall between 150% and 400% of the federal poverty level. There is hope for further expansion of this initiative, given its promising start and the considerable need for affordable child care solutions in Indiana. More information regarding eligibility and participation can be found on the coalition’s official website.

As child care remains a critical issue with broad implications for both families and employers, initiatives such as Tri-Share Plus highlight the importance of collaborative solutions. This program not only addresses the immediate financial concerns of parents but also seeks to foster a more stable workforce environment in the region.