Introducing the Tri-Share Pilot for KCPD, KCFD, and EMS. Cut your child care costs by 66% through the City-State partnership.
"This is an investment in our workforce, our businesses, and our next generation... When parents have access to affordable Child Care, they thrive."
See how the three-way split transforms child care affordability for first responders
| Funding Source | Traditional Monthly Cost | Tri-Share Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Parent (First Responder) | $2,300 | $766 |
| City of Kansas City | $0 | $767 |
| State of Missouri | $0 | $767 |
| Total Value | $2,300 | $2,300 |
Your child care cost drops from $2,300/month to approximately $766/month
KCPD and KCFD could lose up to 40% of their workforce to retirement in the next 5 years. This program is a primary tool to keep young families in uniform and attract new recruits to Kansas City's public safety departments.
Unlike standard 9-to-5 jobs, first responders need care at 3:00 AM. The program includes partnerships with providers offering non-traditional hours, including overnight care — critical for those working 24-hour shifts.
The pilot is backed by a $3 million State of Missouri matching grant plus a $3 million City of Kansas City investment — demonstrating serious commitment to supporting the workforce behind the workforce.
Funding is currently approved through June 2026. Enrollment is first-come, first-served. First responders are encouraged to apply immediately to secure their spot in this limited-capacity program.
Confirm you qualify for the KC First Responder Tri-Share
Must be a qualified First Responder (Police, Fire, or EMS) in Kansas City, Missouri.
Must use a child care provider licensed in the State of Missouri.
Consistent with Missouri Tri-Share standards — typically 200% to 325% of the Federal Poverty Level.
The pilot has limited capacity. Funding is approved through June 2026. Apply now to secure your spot.
| Program Name | Kansas City First Responder Tri-Share Pilot |
| Launch Date | October 2025 |
| Pilot End Date | June 2026 (subject to renewal) |
| Total Funding | $6 Million ($3M State + $3M City) |
| Cost Split | ~1/3 City / ~1/3 State / ~1/3 First Responder |
| Eligible Occupations | KCPD Police Officers, KCFD Firefighters, EMS Personnel |
| Income Eligibility | 200% – 325% of Federal Poverty Level |
| Kansas City Areas Served | Downtown KC, Westport, Country Club Plaza, Brookside, Waldo, Midtown, Northland, South KC, Raytown, Independence, Blue Springs, Lee's Summit, Grandview, Belton |
The KC First Responder Tri-Share pilot has limited funding. Check your eligibility and apply today.
Check Eligibility & Apply →The Kansas City First Responder Tri-Share is a pilot program that splits child care costs three ways: the City of Kansas City, the State of Missouri, and the first responder each contribute approximately one-third. This reduces a first responder's child care costs by about 66%, making quality care affordable for those who protect our community.
Qualified first responders including KCPD police officers, KCFD firefighters, and EMS personnel in Kansas City, Missouri are eligible. Participants must use a child care provider licensed in the State of Missouri and meet income guidelines consistent with Missouri Tri-Share standards (typically 200% to 325% of Federal Poverty Level).
First responders can save approximately 66% on child care costs. For example, if monthly child care costs $2,300, a first responder would pay approximately $766 per month instead, with the City and State covering the remaining two-thirds.
Yes. The program includes partnerships with providers offering non-traditional hours, including overnight care. This is critical for first responders who work 24-hour shifts, nights, and weekends. Providers like KD Academy (Kiddie Depot) offer 24-hour care specifically designed for first responder schedules.
Funding for the pilot is currently approved through June 2026. Enrollment is first-come, first-served. The program is backed by a $3 million state matching grant plus a $3 million City of Kansas City investment, totaling $6 million in combined funding.
Visit the KC First Responder enrollment page to check your eligibility and begin the application process. You will need to verify your first responder status and select a licensed Missouri child care provider.