In a significant legal move, a Santa Clara County resident has taken a stand against alleged housing discrimination. On February 23, 2026, Nelson Kanda filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, accusing Roger Lai and Tuan Van Lai of violating multiple state laws by refusing to accept housing vouchers from the THP Plus Program. This case underscores ongoing issues surrounding fair housing practices and protections for vulnerable populations.
The complaint details how Nelson Kanda, a participant in the THP Plus Program—a transitional housing initiative for former foster youth—was denied rental accommodation at 3208 Lakebrook Ct, San Jose. Despite meeting all program requirements and presenting his voucher as part of his application, Kanda was allegedly informed by property manager Roger Lai that they do not accept such vouchers. This refusal forms the crux of Kanda’s allegations against both Roger Lai and property owner Tuan Van Lai. The lawsuit claims this conduct constitutes unlawful discrimination under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), the Unruh Civil Rights Act, and California’s Unfair Competition Law.
Kanda’s legal team argues that this denial not only breaches state anti-discrimination laws but also exacerbates the challenges faced by former foster youth in securing stable housing. “Defendants’ refusal to engage with Plaintiff as a rental applicant—specifically communicating that they do not accept housing vouchers—constitutes unlawful housing discrimination,” states the complaint. The suit highlights how such actions undermine efforts to prevent homelessness among former foster youth by denying access to programs designed to stabilize their living situations.
The plaintiff seeks various forms of relief from the court, including injunctive relief to prevent further discriminatory practices by the defendants and monetary damages for emotional distress and loss of housing opportunity. Additionally, Kanda is asking for punitive damages due to what he describes as willful violations of well-established laws prohibiting source-of-income discrimination. The case also calls for mandatory fair housing training for the defendants and their agents to ensure compliance with state laws protecting voucher holders.
Representing Nelson Kanda is attorney Zachary Z Zermay from Zermay Law, APC. The case is presided over by Judge M. Suarez under Case ID #26CV487663 in Santa Clara County’s Superior Court.
Source: 26CV487663_Nelson_Kanda_v_Roger_Lai_Complaint_County_of_Santa_Clara_California.pdf
