Pernet Family Health Service Expands Reach and Impact in Worcester

January 3, 2024January 3, 2024 Jerry Filmore

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Pernet Family Health Service, a beacon of support for families in Worcester, Massachusetts, has undergone significant growth and achievements in recent months. The organization’s merger with Webster Square Day Care Center has catalyzed a doubling in size, enabling the provision of high-quality daycare and early education to an increased number of children, now serving 120 kids daily.

In a testament to their commitment to community well-being, the institution’s accomplishments over the past year underscore their dedication to various crucial aspects of family health and support. Pernet’s food pantry emerged as a lifeline, distributing over 200,000 pounds of nutritious food and more than 3,000 boxes of diapers to families in need.

The Early Intervention team worked tirelessly with over 170 children and their families, ensuring that vulnerable young ones hit crucial developmental milestones, providing indispensable support during formative years.

Notably, the Family Stabilization and Support program worked intimately with 250 parents, empowering them with essential parenting skills, thereby fostering healthier family dynamics.

The Maternal Child Health program, another cornerstone initiative, made a significant impact by conducting home visits for more than 325 newborns, extending essential support during a crucial phase of their development.

Crucially, Pernet achieved these milestones with the invaluable assistance of over 250 dedicated volunteers. Their selfless contributions across the food pantry, Youth Program, and various other facets of the organization were instrumental in achieving these commendable feats.

Established as a Department of Public Health-certified home health agency, Pernet Family Health Service operates with a mission to support and fortify families in Worcester. The organization offers hands-on, in-home care for complex maternal and child cases while providing Early Intervention Services for children aged 0-3 years, ensuring optimal development.

Pernet’s collaboration with the Department of Children and Families for the Parent Aide Program focuses on family reunification and parent training. The institution also extends its reach through programs like the Fathers Program, supporting paternal figures in the community and at the Worcester County Jail and House of Correction.

A vital aspect of their operations is the Emergency Assistance Program, which operates a food pantry catering to families’ immediate needs for food, diapers, and hygiene products. Additionally, their Youth Program offers recreational activities, academic support, and events catering to the neighborhood’s youth.

Notably, Pernet collaborates extensively with governmental, nonprofit, and spiritual organizations, positively impacting the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual health of approximately 11,500 individuals annually, with a significant focus on infants and children.

Founded in 1955 by the Little Sisters of the Assumption, Pernet’s essential mission has been to provide healthcare and support to disadvantaged families while revitalizing spirits affected by poverty. In 1968, the institution was incorporated as Pernet Family Health Service, later becoming a certified home health agency by the Department of Public Health. Presently, it stands as a leading provider of home health care and early intervention services in the Worcester area.

Key figures in the organization include:

Sheilah Dooley, RN, BSN, MS: Executive Director
Amie Richard, RN, BSN: Maternal Child Health Nursing Coordinator
Carisa Kularski: Group Program Director
Marleni Tamayo: Family Child Care System Program Director
Joel Wallen, MNM: Associate Executive Director
Chris Nelson, LMHC: Director of Family Support Services
Madelyn Cecelya: Operations Specialist
Melissa Wenderoth, MEd: Director of Early Intervention
Rose Kamau: Human Resources Assistant
Michael Finnegan: Housekeeper
Lori Moran: EI Administrative Assistant
Ellen Cherry: Service Coordinator
Colleen Fisher, LSW: Service Coordinator
Mary Jane Foley, MSW, LICSW: Service Coordinator/Parenting Class Facilitator
Brittany Gleim: Service Coordinator
Jill Welton: Service Coordinator
Becky Morganelli: Service Coordinator
Renee Plaisance: Service Coordinator
Lily Bufalino: Youth Specialist
Leishla Diaz: Food Pantry Administrative Assistant
Reanna Filmore: Food Pantry Assistant
Daniel Diaz: Youth Program Coordinator
Yildiz Laza: Emergency Assistance Program Coordinator (Food Pantry)
Imalay Holguin-Guzman, Jasmine Tumer, Karen Morin, Denise Rowan, Blanca Laza, Sandy’s Ventura: Parent Aides
Mariela Kelly, Crystal Rosado, Emanuela Silva, Heather Stidsen, Kerri Toedt: Registered Nurses

Pernet’s growth and impact are a testament to their unwavering dedication to the welfare of families in Worcester, embodying the spirit of community support and care. With their expanded capacity and ongoing commitment, they continue to be a vital resource for the well-being of families in the region.