MESA, AZ (AZFamily) — The biggest domestic violence organization in the Valley says government spending cuts are forcing them to make some tough decisions.

A New Leaf has had to scale back several programs to continue serving people in need, and now the nonprofit hopes the community can help fill some of the funding gaps.

Last year, 61 Arizonans were killed in domestic violence-related homicides.

“When someone makes the decision to leave, that is the most dangerous time for them,” said the organization’s chief philanthropy officer Laura Bode.

The nonprofit has several shelters across the Valley. When they are at capacity, a program called DVSTOP (Domestic Violence Safe Temporary Overflow Program) puts at-risk victims into hotels.

“We’re planning their transportation there. We’re

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