Child care benefit empowers Sheriff's employees with options

SAN DIEGO COUNTY – Finding and vetting childcare isn't always easy. It is even more challenging for first responders who work varied shifts, weekends and holidays to keep our communities safe.

As an agency committed to the well-being of its sworn and professional employees, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department is proud to support our staff with a new benefit.

Need childcare? There's an app for that.

Beginning July 1, Sheriff's Department employees will have free premium access to an online platform that connects parents with licensed providers all through a zip code search.

TOOTRiS has nearly 200,000 licensed childcare providers on its network. Only facilities with good standing are featured in the system. Parents simply go online or open the app on their cell phones or tablets. Through TOOTRiS, Sheriff's Department families will now be able to:

· Search for 24/7 childcare near their home or work

· See each program's availability in real-time without the need to call

· Use more than 100 search filters to find care that fits their specific needs

· Find slots for full-time care, temporary care, drop-ins, summer camps, before/after-school programs, special needs, tutoring, babysitters, etc.

· This streamlined approach helps provide peace of mind for parents knowing their children are getting the care and attention they need while they work in service of others.

Sheriff Kelly Martinez said, "As an agency that works round the clock, our employees make personal sacrifices to fulfill our mission of keeping everyone safe. It is important we support our staff and their families. We understand the challenges they face as dedicated professionals and loving parents. This initiative offers tailored and flexible childcare solutions to fit their unique needs."

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department is the first law enforcement agency in California to offer this benefit.

Submitted by the Sheriff's Media Relations Department.