By KALEY CONNER

kconner@dailynews.net

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is hoping to make Thanksgiving dinner preparations a little easier.

The group's annual holiday pie fundraiser began this week, offering 10 dessert varieties at a cost of $14 each.

"People are wanting pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving, or pies they don't have to bake," said Wendy Beougher, the group's co-president. "And these are very delicious."

The nonprofit, Christian-based group has sold pies for the past several years, and sees a better turnout every year.

The MarCon brand pies are made in Washington, Kan., and will arrive in Hays for pick-up Nov. 21. Orders can be picked up between 5 and 6 p.m. at the Access Transportation building, 1205 E. 22nd.

For more information about ordering pies, visit the group's Web site at www.habitatelliscounty.org. Pies can be ordered frozen or ready-to-eat.

Proceeds will benefit the group's building fund. Construction is ongoing for two new residences at 17th and Allen, and it's hoped a family will be moved into the first home by year's end, Beougher said.

This will mark the group's second completed project, with a family moving into a newly constructed Ellis home last year.

New construction has a high price tag, and the group works year-round to raise enough money to complete its projects, Beougher said, noting community help is appreciated.

"Community support has been excellent, and we really appreciated all the people who have contributed," she said.