Official Website: https://childcareworksmo.org/
Authorizing Legislation: House Bill 269 (2025)
Common questions about child care assistance in Missouri
Child Care Works is Missouri's first tri-share child care program where employers contribute up to $1,500 per child per year, matched by the state, providing families with up to $3,000 in annual child care assistance.
Parents must work for a participating employer, use a licensed child care provider, and meet median-income guidelines. The program targets working families who earn too much for traditional subsidies but struggle with full child care costs.
The program operates statewide with Exchange pilots in Kansas City, Springfield, and the Ozarks. Major cities include Kansas City, Springfield, Joplin, Columbia, St. Louis, Independence, Lee's Summit, and Branson.
Employers can enroll through Child Care Aware of Missouri or local Chamber of Commerce partners. Participating employers agree to contribute up to $1,500 per child per year for eligible employees.
Missouri's Child Care Works program launched in 2025-2026 with $2.5M in state funding for the Exchange pilot phase under House Bill 269.
Employers in Missouri can implement a Duo-Share program immediatelyโa two-way cost split between employer and employee that can be launched in 60-90 days without waiting for government funding.
Learn About Duo-Share โOur team has helped launch child care cost-sharing programs across the country. Get expert guidance on program design, funding strategies, and implementation.
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