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A new ordinance passed in Kansas City, Missouri, establishes a childcare program designed to support first responders and their families.

The program also is expected to help with the issue of recruitment and retention challenges in public safety departments.

The pilot program also provides relief from the significant financial burden for first responder families.

KCMO Fire Department Captain Kyle Hendricks, who has three young children, pays more than $47,000 annually for childcare.

"A little over $47,000, which is basically the salary of a brand-new firefighter," Hendricks said.

Under the new Tri-share program, costs will be split three ways. The state, city and employee each pay one-third of the childcare expenses.

This structure is designed to m

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