Hear the Call: Support a Lifeline for Food Desert Communities

In a corner of San Francisco where convenience stores are scarce, one man’s determination could transform access to healthy food options. Discover how local efforts might revive a cherished institution and bring relief to countless families.

The Heartbeat of Hunters Point

Nestled among residential homes, Surfside Liquors at 950 Innes Ave. stands as more than just a shop; it is a beacon of hope for the Hunters Point community. For decades, this establishment has provided not only essential goods but also a sense of pride and belonging. Residents fondly recall gathering near the barbecue smoker close by, though out of respect for the owner, no one loiters directly in front of the store. Such is the reverence held for Robert "Bob" Pinkard, whose legacy dates back to 1974.

Pinkard earned recognition in 2006 when the Chrissy Field Center honored him as a community hero. His dedication to supplying fresh produce in what was labeled a food desert made him indispensable. At that time, the nearest alternative grocery store lay two miles away—a distance still relevant today. However, Surfside Liquors no longer stocks fresh produce due to unforeseen circumstances beyond Pinkard’s control.

A Medical Setback with Far-Reaching Consequences

Two years ago, Pinkard underwent knee replacement surgery, forcing him to shutter his beloved store for nine months. Upon reopening late in 2023, he received disheartening news from the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service. They informed him that he could no longer sell food products to customers using food stamps. The reason? He had failed to re-qualify as an authorized retailer for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The crux of the issue revolved around Pinkard’s inability to provide proof of staple food product sales during the year his store remained closed. USDA records confirm that Surfside Liquors lost its SNAP authorization on August 29, 2023. Strangely, the store does not appear in the SNAP final agency decision database, which typically lists administrative sanctions against retailers. Despite inquiries made on June 13, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service has yet to clarify why Surfside Liquors remains absent from the database.

Redefining Retail Requirements

To regain status as a SNAP retailer, Pinkard must meet stringent USDA criteria. Chief among these is demonstrating that over 50 percent of his total gross retail sales consist of staple foods such as dairy, meat, poultry, fish, and fruits and vegetables. When Pinkard reopened in September 2023, he attempted to reintroduce produce and staples. Unfortunately, the majority of his clientele reside in nearby housing projects, where annual household incomes often fall below $20,000. These individuals rely heavily on SNAP benefits, which Pinkard could no longer accept. Consequently, he removed staples and fresh produce from his inventory.

This situation created a frustrating cycle: without accepting food stamps, Pinkard cannot stock fresh foods or staples. Without stocking fresh foods or staples, he cannot qualify to accept food stamps. It’s a dilemma that leaves both Pinkard and his community trapped in limbo.

Economic Hardships Mount

“You gotta throw it away,” Pinkard laments. “You gotta throw the milk away, you gotta throw the butter away, the bread away.” He pulls out his phone to display photos of shelves once brimming with staple food products before 2023. The loss of SNAP authorization has proven financially devastating. Since returning from surgery approximately two years ago, Pinkard has operated at a loss.

“I’m not even paying myself because there’s not enough coming in,” Pinkard admits. “I’ve been blessed where I can handle it, but this place has cost me money for the last two years.” He estimates discarding perishable food alone resulted in losses exceeding $2,000 upon reopening. “I don’t have any money to throw away—I’m trying to survive,” he stresses.

Seeking Solutions Through Advocacy

Following outreach by Mission Local to the Office of Economic and Workforce Development regarding Surfside Liquors’ predicament, representatives confirmed contact with the city’s Office of Small Business. While acknowledging such issues arise infrequently, they pledged to connect Pinkard with an advisor to explore potential resolutions. As of June 11, however, Pinkard reports receiving no communication from the Office of Small Business.

For Pinkard, the stakes extend beyond mere commerce. “These kids I’ve known, I know their parents. And they definitely need those food stamps out here,” he reflects, soul music playing softly in the background. His commitment to serving the community endures, even amidst adversity. The challenge now lies in mobilizing resources and support to ensure Surfside Liquors regains its rightful role as a vital resource for Hunters Point residents.