Idaho Childcare Program Set for Statewide Expansion
A new $2.5 million grant will help Idaho families split childcare costs with their employers and the state.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Child Care
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The United Way of Southeastern Idaho secured a $2.5 million grant in early October 2026 to expand the Tri-Share Childcare Program across the state. This initiative helps families by splitting childcare costs equally between employers, employees, and public funding.
Why it matters
By lowering the financial barrier to childcare, the program aims to make it easier for parents to return to or remain in the workforce. The expansion leverages a cost-sharing model that effectively reduces individual household expenses.
The grant program awards $2.5 million to 18 winners chosen from a pool of nearly 900 applicants. Under the Tri-Share model, each of the three parties—the employer, the employee, and the state—covers one-third of the total childcare cost.
The players
United Way of Southeastern Idaho
A regional nonprofit organization focused on community health, education, and financial stability, now leading the statewide childcare expansion.
Kids First Coalition
A regional advocacy group that administers the Tri-Share program and oversees the transition to statewide operations.
The details
The Tri-Share Childcare Program functions by having employees pay their portion of costs directly through payroll deductions. Participating employers then match these contributions, while the state provides the remaining share to complete the balance. This model, which originated in Michigan, is currently being scaled for Idaho households through a new phase of infrastructure development.
Timeline
Early October 2026: The grant award was officially announced.
Next 6 to 8 months: The program will focus on building infrastructure and signing on new employers.
The Home Front
This expansion adopts the Michigan Tri-Share Childcare Program model to mitigate the rising household burden of childcare expenses. It marks a significant shift toward employer-state-family cost-sharing partnerships in Idaho.
Families interested in this program should contact their human resources department to see if their employer is participating or planning to join. Keep an eye on local employer announcements over the next eight months as new partners are recruited.
The takeaway
The Tri-Share program offers a sustainable way to divide the heavy financial load of childcare between three stakeholders. If you are a working parent, discuss payroll deduction options with your employer to prepare for potential future enrollment.
Further reading
Find more resources for local families by visiting our Child Care section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by East Idaho News.
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