Support Rincon Criollo ~ La Casita De Chema

Greetings to all!

My name is Desseree Soto and it is upsetting to announce that a community garden created to provide a safe space for everyone has been broken into for the 3rd time! A police report was made.

I have created this account because we need community support. Our community garden needs to be more secured all around. Funds will be utilized to replace items that were stolen but most importantly to purchase materials to help secure the place. We need new doors, new locks, a camera system, window guards/locks and barbed wire.

Rincon Criollo also know as La Casita the Chema was founded in the mid 70"s by the late Jose "Chema" Soto. Rincon Criollo is the first and largest casita in New York City. It recently became listed on the New York State Register of Historic Place on June 8, 2023 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places on June 27, 2024.

El Rincón Criollo Centro Cultural, Inc. is a nonprofit organization committed to creating a thriving green space for the Melrose community in the Bronx. As President, I am dedicated to preserving our cultural heritage by promoting Puerto Rican music, art, and traditions through our cultural center and community garden. For over 45 years, we have provided a platform for cultural exchange, teaching, and sustainability, while also ensuring healthy food access and community empowerment.

I will continue to keep my late father's cultural legacy alive by playing an active role in not only in the Melrose community but also in the Bomba y Plena community.