It’s an emotional time for the residents of Little Bay Islands.

Permanent residents are receiving the relocation assistance to which they are entitled under the provincial government program.

As of the end of the year, the lights will be turned off and all services including ferry and road clearing will come to an end.

Mike and Georgina Parsons have decided to stay, even though many of their neighbours have already departed. They have been documenting the process as the community slowly empties.

Mike says long-time residents, many of whom have never lived anywhere else, are packing up and deciding what to bring to their new homes and what to leave.

Most residents are moving to Springdale, while others are going to Grand Falls-Windsor.

Up to $260,000 is being offered to homeowners to relocate and find a new residence off the island. Many Little Bay Islanders are keeping their homes as seasonal residences.