A difficult economy for charities, and the growing needs of children in their care, forced the closure of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville, its executive director said Thursday.

But Bev Heuving also describes the impending move as “a new beginning,” with Kingston-based BGC South East (Boys and Girls Club of Kingston and Area) simultaneously announcing its expansion into Leeds and Grenville.

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In a statement Wednesday, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville said it “ will wind down operations and will conclude all programs and services effective Dec. 31, 2025.”

The decision brings to an end 48 years of operation in the local area.

The local BBBS becomes the second to close in Eastern Ontario in recent weeks. Last month, Big Brothers Big Sister

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