High Plains Mental Health Center served about 1,700 Ellis County residents last year, and the demand is growing according to Executive Director Walt Hill.

High Plains made their request Monday night for 2013 funding from the Ellis County Commission. County Attorney Tom Drees serves on the High Plains Board and says funding from each county in the cooperative is essential especially with cuts fro the state putting a strain on mental health services.

High Plains is requesting about $257,000.