Hot on the heels of House passage of a federal spending blueprint that clears the way for massive cuts, Caring Connection in Benton Harbor is renewing its call for everyone to reach out to their member of Congress to express concerns.

Caring Connection CEO Robin McGinnis tells us about 80% of the non-profit’s funding originates with the feds. That money pays for Caring Connection’s 28-bed domestic violence shelter. What if that funding is cut?

“I’m not sure where these people will go,” McGinnis said. “They’re coming to us because they’re frightened, they need safety, and we provide the support and encouragement to help them. If we close that shelter, I’m not sure where — they’ll be on the streets. They will be living in their cars, and they will continue to experience abuse.”

McGinnis says people rely on non-profits like Caring Connection in communities across the country. She says if Medicaid is cut, that will be a huge blow to the people Caring Connection serves.

“We really need the community to recognize that not only Caring Connection, but all not-for-profits will suffer if these cuts are really implemented.”

McGinnis says the uncertainty is the hardest part.

McGinnis has spoken with representatives of Congressman Bill Huizenga, who told her the congressman supports Medicaid. However, he did vote for the spending blueprint Tuesday night, along with Congressman Tim Walberg. She says a bright spot has been the support Caring Connection has received from the community, with calls coming from the United Way, Berrien Community Foundation, and the Corewell Health Foundation all asking how they can help.

McGinnis wants people to make their voices heard so Congress understands what it’s doing.