MARQUETTE – The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, in partnership with the Small Business Association of Michigan, has announced that open enrollment for the Nurture Benefits pilot begins Saturday.

The program offers licensed and license-exempt child care providers across Michigan access to affordable health, life and retirement benefits to support their careers and the families they serve. Currently, only 35% of child care providers receive health insurance through their employer.

“Michigan’s child care professionals are the foundation of our early learning system and the workforce that makes all other work possible,” Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP, said in prepared remarks. “Nurture Benefits gives providers the stability and support they need to grow in their careers while ensuring families have access to consistent, high-quality care. We encourage all eligible providers to explore the program, learn about available benefits and take the first steps to enroll starting (Saturday).”

Administered by SBAM, the Nurture Benefits pilot gives child care employers the opportunity to offer affordable health, life and retirement benefits to their staff. Eligible providers–including licensed and license-exempt center-based, family home and group home settings working 30 or more hours per week–can begin enrolling Saturday with coverage effective Jan. 1.

Here’s a general list of the benefits providers gain access to: 

• Medical, dental and vision coverage 

• Life and retirement benefits 

• Wellness and behavioral health resources 

Additional features help providers navigate the program, including: 

• Tiered benefit packages to fit diverse needs and budgets 

• A user-friendly enrollment platform 

• A dedicated Member Care Team for personalized guidance 

• Online webinars explaining the program, eligibility, benefits and enrollment process 

• A mailing list to receive the latest updates and news 

Providers can review all resources, access technical assistance and prepare for enrollment at www.nurturebenefits.com.

Bud Sargent can be reached at 906-228-2500, extension 544. His email address is bsargent@miningjournal.net