BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- Funding cuts at the state level could cause a local organization serving women and children to lose money.

Caring Connection reports that the current Michigan state budget would cut $150,000 from current programs for domestic violence and sexual assault victims.

Caring Connection says last year it safely housed over 108 women and children who survived domestic violence. The organization provides housing, food, counseling, employment support, and legal advocacy.

Additionally, Caring Connection's Sexual Assault Response Team serves all three Corewell Health hospital locations in Berrien County.

The Michigan House passed the $78.5 billion state budget last week entirely along party lines, with one Democrat voting in favor. It's now being discussed by the Michigan Senate.

The budget bill must be passed before Oct. 1 to prevent Michigan's state government from shutting down.

For more information or to seek help from Caring Connection, you can call their 24-hour hotline at 269-925-9500 or visit their website.