Donostia–San Sebastián has banned the volunteer-organised “cenas solidarias” in public spaces with effect from 28 July 2026. The town hall justifies the measure on the grounds of hygiene, safety and public-order requirements, as well as indications that permits were lacking and food traceability was inadequate. At the same time, the city announced that it would expand the municipal meal programme Otorduak and provide around €500,000 in additional funding for it.
Facts and context: According to the city administration, the decision is based on reports from the municipal departments of Health/Environment and Public Space, and from the municipal police. The initiative Kaleko Afari Solidarioak (KAS) had, by its own account, distributed hot meals daily at several locations in Donostia since 2020, including at Plaza de la Constitución, the Plaza Gipuzkoa and in the area of Anoeta. At peak times, it reportedly served up to around 300 people. The municipality points out that volunteer-run distributions are not subject to the same checks as municipal or contractually organised services. It says Otorduak has eligibility requirements such as registration or a minimum period of residence in the city.
Attributed statements: KAS representatives and supporting groups criticised the ban as an abrupt move without a viable transition plan. Left-wing parties and social organisations warned that the decision would leave “hundreds” without a reliable alternative until the expansion of Otorduak was implemented. The town hall, by contrast, said that institutionally supported services provided better health protection, predictability and social support than informal distributions. Councillor Jon Insausti (PNV) also argued that a single meal a day was not enough to promote social integration; the aim was to provide more comprehensive, stable support.
Consequences and outstanding questions: In the short term, the provision of food for people without accommodation in Donostia is changing. It remains unclear how gaps in provision will be bridged until additional Otorduak capacity becomes available, and how people without a municipal register entry or formal registration will gain access. Media reports said the town hall was standing by the ban; whether affected groups will take legal action or third parties will offer mediation remains open. According to the city, compliance with hygiene and safety standards is the priority; civil society groups, on the other hand, are calling for accessible solutions that take effect immediately and include the group previously reached by KAS without imposing new barriers.
Editor: Phillipe Schmidt-Araguin (Article created with AI assistance).