LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A nonprofit health organization is working to combat food insecurity in Levelland.

Founded in 1986, South Plains Rural Health Services serves rural communities near the Texas-New Mexico border.

The organization provides health care, dental, and mental health services, primarily to economically disadvantaged individuals.

"It's really important to us to be a hub and to be able to be a primary care facility that provides so many different services under one roof," said Meagan Bratton.

Now, it's looking to add another service soon, a community garden.

Back in 2011, SPRHS established a food bank in Levelland with help from the South Plains Food Bank in Lubbock.

While generous donations have kept folks fed, Bratton believes more can be done for the community.

"We need to take care of folks not just medically, dentally, behavioral health, but also nutritionally. One of the things we don't see often is produce," said Bratton.

By providing access to fresh, locally grown food, Bratton says folks will stay healthy, reducing the number of visits to their clinics.

She believes there will also be health benefits for volunteers.

"We really feel like it is going to help people who come in and volunteer with their mental health by giving a boost from being able to give back but also physically," said Bratton.

Bratton hopes it will serve as a gathering space for residents of all ages and backgrounds to connect and foster a sense of pride and unity.

"It's great for the community to know what they're giving back is actually going to their community and their neighbors that might need it." said Bratton.

The organization is planning on offering workshops and classes as well, so folks can learn how to garden or improve theirs at home.

The first planting is expected to take place in the spring.

South Plains Rural Health Services is located at 1000 FM 300 in Levelland.