TL/DR –
The Upper Peninsula in Michigan is facing a childcare crisis with only 31% of the area’s needs being met, and workers are regularly missing work or leaving jobs due to lack of viable childcare options. To address the issue, the newly-formed Upper Peninsula Childcare Task Force, consisting of 35 childcare advocates, met in person for the first time to discuss strategies, including the exploration of Michigan’s Tri-Share program which can reduce an individual’s childcare costs by 66%. The task force has also created a survey to understand the childcare needs and preferences of families in the Upper Peninsula.
Marquette-Alger RESA Addresses Upper Peninsula Childcare Crisis
The rising childcare crisis in the Upper Peninsula, a concern for many parents, prompted Marquette-Alger RESA to host a solution-oriented event. With 63% of employees taking time off due to childcare issues and 15% leaving jobs due to lack of childcare, only 31% of Michigan’s childcare needs are being met. This alarming scenario led to the formation of the Upper Peninsula Childcare Task Force.
The Task Force convened in person for the first time at the MARESA offices in Marquette. Approximately 35 childcare advocates gathered to exchange ideas on tackling the escalating crisis. Janie McNabb, a childcare advocate, explains, “We have data that shows only 29% of the childcare needs are currently being met in the whole Upper Peninsula. We’re prioritizing, identifying our best strategies, and coming up with an action plan.”
McNabb cites the scarcity of childcare workers, largely due to low pay, as a major contributor to the crisis. She advocates the exploration of Michigan’s Tri-Share program. This program can reduce childcare costs by 66%, sharing the expenses between employers, the State of Michigan, and individuals.
The task force is also seeking public input through a survey to better understand and address the childcare needs in the Upper Peninsula. You can contribute to the cause by taking the survey.
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