Bridging the Gap: How Transit Connects Snohomish County to Food Security

Food banks are more than just a resource—they are a lifeline. But what happens when the biggest barrier to food security isn’t the supply of food, but the ability to get to it?

In this episode of That Transit Show, host Monica Spain sits down with Carla Rankin, Executive Director and CEO of the Arlington Community Food Bank and Vice President of the Snohomish County Food Coalition. Together, they explore the critical intersection of public transportation and community health.

Carla provides an inside look at the current state of food insecurity in Snohomish County, discussing the impact of SNAP benefit changes, the rise of "food deserts" due to grocery store closures, and how Community Transit is helping neighbors reach the nutrition they need.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Current Crisis: Why food banks are seeing record demand following the end of emergency SNAP benefits.
• The Transportation Barrier: How a lack of transit can prevent families from accessing fresh, healthy food.
• Behind the Scenes: Where food banks actually get their supply and how staff are pivoting to meet new challenges.
• Taking Action: Practical ways you can volunteer or support your local food bank today.

Resources & Links:

• Find a food bank near you: Snohomish County Food Bank Coalition
• Plan your trip to the food bank: Community Transit Trip Planner
• Learn more about Arlington Community Food Bank: Arlingtonfoodbank.org