A pie sale in Ellsworth on Wednesday will benefit an organization that gives financial help to women seeking higher education.

P.E.O. International stands for Philanthropic Education Organization International and it's based out of Des Moines, Iowa. But there are local chapters across the country, including right here in Maine. This group, that was started by a group of sorority sisters/friends in the 1800's spends its time and efforts helping women improve their education, and support each other in times of need.

It helps women's educational expenses in a variety of ways, from low-interest loans to scholarships, scholar awards, and more. Some of the financial help is based more on volunteerism, rather than academic prowess. And one will specifically help women who left their pursuit of an education to support their families and are now returning to college.

Local chapter President Ann Dederer says that most of the money raised in Maine goes into the international general fund to help cover those scholarships. But a portion of the donations are kept here in Maine for local scholarships, including the money from this Wednesday's pie sale, which will be held at Reny's in Ellsworth from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Folks can put in orders for specific pies by calling Nell at 667-6076. For more information about P.E.O. International, tune in Sunday morning for our public service program, Maine Concerns.

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