Tri-county transit agencies offer free rides to food pantry locations
Friday, October 31, 2025
Categories: General
To support residents affected by the loss of SNAP benefits during the federal government shutdown, the tri-county region’s three transit agencies, CATA, EATRAN and Clinton Transit, are offering systemwide free rides to local food pantry locations starting Saturday, Nov. 1. Free rides will remain available until SNAP benefits are restored.
Customers in the tri-county region can ride any CATA, EATRAN or Clinton Transit service to reach a local food pantry location. Just inform the driver when boarding. No ID is required to receive a free ride. Riders are encouraged to call ahead to confirm pantry hours, eligibility and appointment details.
Visit the to learn more. The map may not include all pantry locations in the region. For free assistance and referrals to local food programs and support services, dial 2-1-1 or visit the . For additional resources, visit the .
CATA Rydz customers can use promo code 2025SNAPRydz through the app for one free round-trip ride to local food pantry locations.
Trips on CATA’s Spec-Tran and Rural Service must be scheduled by 5 p.m. the day before you need a ride, as same-day rides are not available for these services. CATA also recommends scheduling all Redi-Ride trips at least one day in advance. Demand-response rides can be arranged by calling 517-394-2282. Spec-Tran trips can also be scheduled online at or through the MyRideCATA app.
EATRAN riders must reserve their free trips to pantry locations one day in advance by calling 517-543-4087 no later than 5 p.m.
Clinton Transit riders should call 989-224-8127 or use the Clinton Transit mobile app to schedule a ride at least a day in advance. Scheduling hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.