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 screening a child must be age 0-3. Please  contact Laurie Majka (lmajka@pernetfamilyhealth.org) to discuss services or schedule an appointment.

Pernet’s Parent Aide Service is a state-funded program that complements the support that families receive from the Department of Children and Families. 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 DCF worker. For additional information on how a parent aide can help please contact Chris Nelson (cnelson@pernetfamilyhealth.org)

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. Expectant parents can contact Chris Nelson (cnelson@pernetfamilyhealth.org) or Yildiz Laza (ylaza@pernetfamilyhealth.org ) for details.

Founded by the Little Sisters of the Assumption over 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 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. For more information please contact Michael Rezkalla (mrezkalla@pernetfamilyhealth.org)

Rooted in the spirituality of the Little Sisters of the Assumption, Pernet Family Health Service offers youth programs that are based on the availability, skills, and interests of community youth and volunteers. As an example, we offer an after-school program Homework Club led by students from Assumption College, Holy Cross College, Anna Maria College, Clark University, and WPI. This drop-in activity is free and is open to any school-aged child. The Homework Club takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 until 5:00 pm and includes play time at Crompton Park, homework help and mentoring. We also provide a mentoring program for middle school youth Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. It includes recreation, mentoring, arts and crafts, outings, youth events and other fun activities for youth. For more information, please contact Michael Rezkalla (mrezkalla@pernetfamilyhealth.org)

The Fathers & Family Program provides support services to incarcerated fathers at the Worcester County Sherrif's Office, the AlmostHomeProgram, 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.

Home health aides 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.

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 Sandra Fleming (sfleming@pernetfamilyhealth.org) or call MRC directly at 1-800-223-2559 to determine eligibility.

Pernet runs an emergency food and infant supply pantry. Residents of Worcester’s 01610 zip code can receive food from the food pantry once a month by showing identification. To obtain baby and infant supplies such as formula, baby food, cereal and diapers, clients must show proof of child (such as a birth certificate or WIC card). Supplies are given out in quantities to last approximately three 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 food co-op The Emergency Assistance Program is possible through grants from Project Bread, the United Way of Central Massachusetts, Rachel’s Table and the generous contributions of local groups, individuals, churches and the Worcester County Food Bank. Contact Paulette Lacoste (placoste@pernetfamilyhealth.org) for additional information.

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 contact Chris Nelson (cnelson@pernetfamilyhealth.org), or call him at 508-755-1228 for more information.