Shelby State Bank announced Dec. 11 that it will participate in Michigan’s Tri-Share Child Care Program, a statewide initiative designed to make high quality childcare more affordable for working families to serve employees in Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana counties.
In partnership with Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, a designated regional facilitator hub, the bank will now offer its eligible employees a benefit that divides the cost of childcare equally between the employee, the employer, and the State of Michigan.
Launched as a pilot in 2021, Michigan’s Tri-Share model was created to help families who struggle with the high cost of childcare but do not qualify for traditional subsidies. By engaging employers directly, the program positions childcare not only as a family issue, but also as a workforce and economic development strategy.
“Shelby State Bank is honored to join this important effort,” said Erin Stark, HR Director at Shelby State Bank, in a press release. “We know childcare challenges impact our employees’ ability to grow in their careers, plan for their futures, and balance work and family responsibilities. Participating in Tri-Share allows us to invest directly in our team members and strengthen our workforce in a meaningful way.”
Through the partnership with Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, employees will receive support navigating program eligibility and identifying licensed childcare providers. The Tri-Share model currently serves families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level, expanding access to middle-income households that often face the greatest affordability gaps.
Statewide evaluations of the Tri-Share program reported strong employee satisfaction, improved retention for participating employers, and increased stability for families. Many households have reported being able to take promotions, pursue new career opportunities, or save for major life goals, such as purchasing a first home, thanks to reduced childcare costs.
“Shelby State Bank’s support of the childcare needs of their employees expands opportunities to succeed in West Michigan,” said Catrina Rule, Tri-Share Child Care Program Manager at Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, in the release. “Having employers invest in their workforce demonstrates their support for the program and offering a creative and effective solution to address childcare challenges and will be the first appearance of the Tri-Share program in Oceana County.”
Today, Michigan’s Tri-Share program spans 59 counties, engaging over 200 employers, 550 employees, and 371 childcare providers. Its success has drawn national attention, inspiring similar efforts in states such as New York, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Ohio.
“Tri-Share is not a single solution to the childcare crisis, but it is a powerful piece of the puzzle,” Rule added. “We are thrilled to see employers like Shelby State Bank leading the way.”
Other employers interested in participating in the Tri-Share program can contact Catrina Rule at crule@goodwillwm.org.
