WNCSource operates 15 childcare centers across Henderson, Transylvania, Rutherford  and Polk counties providing Head Start, Early Head Start, NC Pre-K and Developmental  Day programs to over 500 children and families annually. The Tri-Share initiative builds on  that experience while addressing one of the most significant challenges facing working  families today: the high cost of childcare. 

The need for affordable childcare is significant across North Carolina. A 2023 statewide survey by the NC Chamber found that 26% of parents with children age five and younger  had left the workforce because they could not find affordable childcare. For many working  families, the cost of care can make returning to work or remaining in the workforce  financially difficult. Although Tri-Share has income eligibility requirements, it is available in  all 100 counties and has the potential to help thousands of families across our region. 

Tri-Share is a public-private partnership that divides the cost of childcare equally among  three parties: the employer, the employee, and the State of North Carolina. For eligible  families, the program can reduce monthly childcare expenses by up to 66%, helping  working parents remain in the workforce while improving household financial stability. 

WNCSource will collaborate with the Children and Family Resource Center and the  Henderson County Early Childhood Task Force to launch a pilot program for WNCSource  employees. The organization plans to use what it learns from the Pilot to help expand Tri Share to other local employers and families in the community. 

“Access to affordable, high-quality childcare is essential for working families and for the  strength of our local workforce,” said WNCSource CEO, David White. “Tri-Share offers a practical and innovative way to bring employers, families and the State together to address  the rising cost of childcare.” 

WNCSource gratefully acknowledges the Community Foundation of Henderson County for  its support in bringing innovative solutions like Tri-Share within reach of Henderson County  employers and families.