What's Happening?
Missouri has launched a statewide initiative called Missouri Child Care Works, which is based on the Tri-Share model. This program divides child care costs among families, employers, and public or philanthropic partners. It targets working families who
earn too much to qualify for traditional subsidies but cannot afford market-rate care. The program, which began in late 2025 with a $2.5 million appropriation, is administered by Child Care Aware of Missouri in partnership with Kids Win Missouri. Key features include voluntary employer participation, flat monthly employer slot fees, and sliding-scale public support to reduce family costs. The initiative is seen as a potential national model for addressing child care shortages and workforce instability.
Why It's Important?
The Missouri Child Care Works program addresses a critical gap in child care subsidies that primarily serve low-income families, leaving moderate- and middle-income workers without support. This 'subsidy gap' contributes to workforce instability, employee turnover, and reduced labor force participation. By engaging employers and providing predictable costs, the program aims to stabilize the workforce and support economic development. It also offers a model for other states to follow, potentially transforming child care from a social service to a workforce development tool.
What's Next?
The success of Missouri Child Care Works could lead to broader adoption of the Tri-Share model across the U.S. As the program continues, stakeholders will likely monitor its impact on workforce stability and economic development. The program's design allows for flexible participation, which could encourage more employers, especially small businesses and those in rural areas, to join. Future policy discussions may focus on expanding funding and refining the model to enhance its effectiveness.
