Rick Catino Anthracite Associates (RCAA) Health Services, Inc.

The History of RCAA – A Remarkable Journey

Over 35 years ago, Rick Catino owned Kluckers and Kreme, a popular chicken and ice cream business in Mt. Carmel. The restaurant, with its lively outdoor deck and weekly teen dances, was a local hotspot. But behind the fun, Rick uncovered a heartbreaking truth—heroin was making its way into the lives of young attendees, including his own two children.

Instead of walking away, Rick made a courageous decision. He closed his successful business to help his children—and others—recover from addiction. What began as a personal mission soon became a community movement. After earning his Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) certification, Rick began hosting support meetings, including AA and NA, at his former restaurant. His goal: to offer hope and help to anyone in need, free of judgment.

Rick’s impact grew. He played a vital role in stopping the spread of dangerous substances like bath salts in the area and became a trusted resource for families in crisis.

RCAA – Mission, Growth, and Impact

In 2012, Rick founded Rick Catino Anthracite Associates, Inc. (RCAA), transforming his former business space into supervised, drug-free housing for those battling addiction, mental illness, homelessness, or reentry from prison.

RCAA has since expanded to multiple properties, now housing 22 adults and 10 children. Most arrive with no income or support. RCAA covers essential needs—housing, food, counseling, transportation, clothing, and more—to help them get back on their feet.

But RCAA is more than a shelter. RCAA supports residents in obtaining public benefits (SSI, SNAP, VA, etc.), securing the documentation needed to open a bank account or search for employment, and counselling and coaching in life skills. The RCAA program ultimately aims to foster competency and confidence in maintaining a home, job procurement, money management, community interaction, teamwork, finding social support, and overall wellness, all with the goal of achieving independence and stability.

Today, agencies like Central Susquehanna Opportunities, Women in Transition, Northumberland County Drug & Alcohol & Mental Health, County and State Prison, and Veterans Administration & Veterans Court increasingly rely on RCAA for assistance. To meet rising demand, Rick and his team are building three new housing units—funded and constructed in-house.

Rick Catino’s story is one of deep empathy and relentless determination. Through RCAA, he continues to transform lives, proving that one person’s compassion can light the way to a better future for many.