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 screening a child must be age 0-3.
FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES
Fathers & Family ProgramThe Fathers & Family Program provides support services to fathers in the community, incarcerated fathers at the Worcester County House of Correction, and residents of the Hector Reyes House. Weekly Parenting/Support Groups and individual case management services are offered to provide fathers with the opportunity to share personal experiences and support their efforts to strengthen their connection with their children.
Homemaker ProgramThis service is for adults with disabilities 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). To determine eligibility, you may call MRC directly at 1-800-223-2559 or contact us for additional information.
Young Parent Support ProgramIn 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.
Parent Aide ProgramPernet’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.
MATERNAL & CHILD NURSING PROGRAM
Maternity & Child Nursing ProgramHome 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 us for information on what types of insurance will cover this service.
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FAMILY & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Youth ProgramWe 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 includes play time at Crompton Park, homework help and mentoring. We also provide a mentoring program for middle school youth. It includes recreation, mentoring, arts and crafts, outings, youth events and other fun activities for youth.
Emergency Assistance Program / Food & Infant SuppliesPernet 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. Pantry hours are: Mondays, 1:00 - 3:00 PM; Tuesdays and Wednesdays 11 AM - 3 PM.
Nutrition ClassesSummer Book ClubGreen Island Gardens / Summer Youth JobsNeighborhood Advocacy & Capacity BuildingComputer LabFor more information about any of our Family & Community Development Programs, please contact Emily Linhares at elinhares@pernetfamilyhealth.org.
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