Good morning, Jefferson City.

A new Jefferson City program, Child Care Works, will share child care costs among state+employers+parents, potentially cutting bills by two-thirds.

Over 30 families and 10 employers are participating while state funding depends on annual appropriations.

A new child care subsidy program is lowering costs for families while helping Jefferson City employers address staffing shortages (Kids Win Missouri oversees Child Care Works that covers up to two-thirds of child care expenses).

Gov. Kehoe and Mayor Fitzwater supported the initiative.

Farms across mid-Missouri saw reduced pumpkin yields because of late-summer dryness and higher temperatures, yet places like Fischer Farms and Hickory Ridge Orchard continue to host events including hayrides, corn mazes, and farm lessons (helping visitors learn about local agriculture).