Pernet is notable in this Catalogue for combining two features: it is a sectarian (Roman Catholic) agency providing non-sectarian services to all in need; and it is a "generalist" agency in family services, seeking to bridge gaps between many various government, profit, and benefit services. By shifting its programs according to current needs and resources, it increases the responsiveness of the other sectors.

Founded in 1955 by the Little Sisters of the Assumption, incorporated in 1968, and today one of the major family service providers in Worcester County, Pernet has remained dedicated simply to strengthening needy families. It tries very hard to recognize clients' abilities and perspectives in the context of their life circumstances, and to help them define and commit to achieving realistic goals.

Its core programs focus mainly on poor women and their children. One program provides home visits and other services to high-risk pregnant and post-partum women to help reduce infant mortality, abuse and neglect; it also serves underinsured families where a newborn or young child has medical problems such as asthma, prematurity or failure to thrive.

Although Pernet's home nursing visits are often partially funded by public and third-party (e.g., employer) insurance programs, many other costs associated with serving these populations are not covered -- e.g., staff training, advocacy, service coordination, inter-agency planning, meetings with other service providers, case conferences, etc. For these essential but unfunded functions, Pernet needs your help.