This article originally appeared on MassLive.com.

The AIDS Foundation of Western Massachusetts, which for more than two decades has provided financial and emotional support for people with HIV/AIDS, held its final gathering and candlelight vigil on Friday at the South Congregational Church in Springfield.

Recently, the organization announced that it will close at the end of September.

A combination of declining corporate support due to a changing local economy and a change in public perception about HIV/AIDS as a critical health emergency has lessened donations over the last few years, according to Jessica Roncarati-Howe, a longtime volunteer, officer and past executive director.

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