San Jose officials initially ordered Lighthouse Food Rescue & Distribution to cease its operations on 17th Street in September, citing zoning violations and blocked sidewalks. However, following public feedback, the city reversed course on potential fines and instead offered financial assistance to help the food pantry relocate.
Lighthouse Food Rescue & Distribution, led by Pastor Ralph Olmos, serves over 1,000 people daily, providing free groceries five days a week to families, seniors, unhoused residents, and individuals with disabilities. Its offerings include milk, meat, eggs, and specialized food packages. The nonprofit operates from its longtime location near East Julian and North 17th streets.
The initial citation issued by the city required Lighthouse to remove its sidewalk food distribution and canopies within 10 days. It also mandated that the nonprofit cease all operations at its 17th Street location within 60 days. The citation warned of potential daily fines of up to $20,000 if the orders were not followed.
Following the initial enforcement action, Mayor Matt Mahan and Councilmember Anthony Tordillos, who represents the district where Lighthouse operates, confirmed that no fines had been imposed. In a joint statement, the officials acknowledged the essential work of Lighthouse in the community while also stressing the need for neighborhood residents, especially elderly and disabled individuals, to access sidewalks. They stated that the city's Housing Department and Code Compliance Team were working to help the pastor relocate, ensuring continued service to the community while addressing mobility concerns. Mayor Mahan further addressed the situation on Instagram, noting the "outpouring of advocacy and support" for Lighthouse and stating his team was in touch with Pastor Olmos to aid in relocation, potentially with moving costs.
Pastor Olmos expressed skepticism about staying at the 17th Street site, despite the city's offer of relocation assistance. He noted prior interactions with the city, recalling how Lighthouse was once called a "Beacon of hope" before receiving the order to "get out or we will fine you." He previously shared his concern about the families who rely on the pantry's services, asking, "How can I leave the people?"
This is not the first time Lighthouse Food Rescue & Distribution has faced issues with the city. In 2022, the nonprofit was required to obtain a special use permit, which could have cost up to $15,500. After community opposition, then-Mayor Sam Liccardo and Councilmember Raul Peralez proposed waiving or funding these fees. Later that year, the City Council unanimously voted to support relief for food pantries.
Marika Krause, a spokesperson for City Planning, Building and Code Enforcement, indicated that zoning rules have since changed, and a special use permit is no longer an option for the pantry's current operations. Although the city has offered assistance, officials have not publicly confirmed a finalized relocation site for Lighthouse, nor has it been announced whether the original 60-day shutdown order has been officially rescinded. The city remains committed to finding a non-punitive solution that benefits everyone involved, according to Mahan and Tordillos.
The need for Lighthouse's services remains critical for many San Jose residents. The city's current efforts aim to balance support for vital community services with ensuring public accessibility in neighborhoods.
