Pernet Family Health

Early Intervention
The Early Intervention Program provides family-centered developmental services to children who are experiencing or are at risk of developmental delay. The lead agency for the program is the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Family and Community Health. Referrals may be made by any parent, hospital, clinic, physician or social service worker who suspects that a child may not be walking, talking, or interacting at the level appropriate for their age. To be eligible for a free evaluation a child must be age 0-3. Contact Sue Prestes (sprestes@pernetfamilyhealth.org) to discuss services or schedule an appointment.

Emergency Food and Infant Supply Pantry
Monday, Wedesday, and Thursday from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., Tuesday 1:00 – 7:00 p.m., Pernet runs an emergency food and infant supply pantry. All individuals are eligible to receive this service once a month by showing identification. To obtain baby and infant supplies such as formula, baby food, cereal, and diapers clients must also show proof of child (such as a birth certificate or WIC card). Supplies are given out in quantities to last approximately two days. Clients are also encouraged to talk to trained staff and volunteers about long term hunger solutions such as Food Stamps, WIC, and Serve New England. This program is possible through grants from Project Bread, the United Way, and the generous contributions of local groups, individuals, and the Worcester County Food Bank. Contact Paulette Lacoste (placoste@pernetfamilyhealth.org) for any additional information.

Family Partners Mentoring Program
The Family Partners Mentoring program at Pernet Family Health Service matches community volunteers with families who welcome ongoing support after they have gone through one of Pernet's clinical programs (nursing, early intervention, social services). Family mentors spend about two hours a week with a family. Parents enjoy adult-to-adult time with their mentor who is trained to be a good listener. Mentors help parents define goals for themselves and connect them with resources to help them reach their goals. Family mentors also spend time with the children, to give parents a chance for some personal time and to model creative ways to engage with their children through play, recreation, and enrichment.

Fathers & Family Program
The Fathers & Family Program provides support services to incarcerated fathers at the Worcester County Sherrifs Office, the Almost Home Program, and Pernet Family Health Service. Weekly Parenting/Support Groups and individual case management services are offered at each of these sites to provide fathers with the opportunity to share personal experiences and support their efforts to strengthen their connection with their children. Please contact Chris Nelson (cnelson@pernetfamilyhealth.org), for more information.

Healthy Start Initiative
The Healthy Start Initiative was created as a way of combating high infant mortality rates in the Worcester area. Eligible clients receive a case manager and nurse to provide assessments and resource referrals to new and pregnant mothers. Expecting parents can contact Yildiz Laza (ylaza@pernetfamilyhealth.org )
for details.

Homemaker Program
This service is for disabled adults between the ages of 18 and 59. To be eligible clients must meet certain income criteria and be in need of assistance with light chores and shopping. This program is funded by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). For more information please contact Sandy Fleming (sfleming@pernetfamilyhealth.org) or call MRC directly at 1-800-223-2559 to determine eligibility.

Maternal Child Nursing
Home health aids and nurses at Pernet provide home care and support to pregnant and parenting women, infants, young children and their families. Referrals are made by local hospitals, health centers, physicians, community agencies and families themselves. The majority of families are referred because of high risk for poor health outcomes. Please contact Sheilah Dooley (sdooley@pernetfamilyhealth.org) for information on what types of insurance will cover this service.

Parent Aides
Pernet’s Parent Aide Service is a state funded program that complements the support that families receive from the Department of Social Services. If individuals are interested in having a home visitor to work with them on household management, parenting skills, or access to community resources then they may request a Pernet Parent Aide through their DSS worker. For additional information on how a parent aide can help please contact Karen Morin (kmorin@pernetfamilyhealth.org).

Spiritual Life Program
Founded by the Little Sisters of the Assumption fifty years ago, Pernet Family Health Service respects all faith traditions and does not discriminate because of a person's religious or non-religious beliefs. Rooted in the Catholic tradition, however, we can be a rich resource for persons seeking spiritual care. We offer Mass every first and third Tuesday of the month and celebrate the feast day of the Little Sisters with a Mass in August. In addition, the Little Sisters and other staff members can offer support to those who ask for spiritual help by praying with and for individuals and families, writing to them, visiting those who are home-bound, and guiding those who are looking for a faith community that fits their needs.

Young Parent Support Service
In an effort to help young parents be successful in their new role Pernet offers a Young Parent Support program. This program helps parents age 23 and under by teaching parenting skills, methods to manage time, and how to establish a network of support. Please e-mail or call Yildiz Laza (ylaza@pernetfamilyhealth.org) for more information.

Youth Program
Pernet Family Health Service offers youth programs that are based on the availability, skills, and interests of community volunteers. Currently, we offer a Homework Club led by students from Assumption College and Holy Cross. This drop-in activity is free and is open to any school-aged child. The Homework Club takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 3:30 until 5:00 pm and includes play time at Crompton Park and a snack.

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