Mission

Rincon Family Services was established in 1972, through a clinic called “El Rincon.” Rafael “Paloma” Rios, a magnetic organizer in Chicago’s Puerto Rican community, led the founding. Rios has been credited with being the visionary force among the originators of Fiestas Patronales—a long-standing annual festival celebrating Puerto Rican heritage and culture in Humboldt Park. With the support and intellect of a group of empowered Latino civic leaders—clergy, elected officials, law enforcement, and medical professionals—El Rincon became the first agency of its kind in the West Town community. It was an establishment created by Latinos for Latinos who sought a safe haven from the perils of drug addiction.

Through decades of gentrification and expanding socioeconomic gaps, underrepresented residents have struggled to survive against various disparities. These inequalities were magnified by their living conditions, which included addiction, violence, and homelessness. Rincon became an oasis for individuals and families of all ethnic and racial backgrounds who sought individualized, culturally competent, and holistic care for their health concerns. Today, Rincon continues to grow and meet the needs of the community with centers in West Humboldt Park, Avondale, Belmont Cragin, and recently in Kankakee, IL. It is through these doors that some of the most at-risk groups in the Chicagoland area are served.