PORTLAND — Maine churches, synagogues, and peace groups are joining in a Quest for Peace collection of humanitarian aid for the needy poor of Nicaragua.

School supplies are the highest priority need, but clean spring and summer-weight clothing, sewing materials, blankets, hand tools, sports equipment, powdered milk, and toys. Medical supplies are accepted only by special arrangement.

Funds are also needed for shipping, about $2 per box.

Churches and other groups will establish local collection points. Pickups will begin in Bangor at 8 a.m. Monday, May 11, at St. Mary’s Church parking lot, Ohio Street. The second stop will be at 10:45 a.m. Monday, May 11, at the Second Parish Congregational UCC Church at Bridge and State streets, Augusta. The third stop will be at 12:45 p.m. at the Westgate Shopping Center next to St. Patrick’s Church on Outer Congress Street, Portland.

The goal is two-thirds of a cargo container, the other third to be collected in Concord, Mass. Shipping costs for a container are $6,000.

“There is a general misconception that the end of the contra war has improved the situation in Nicaragua, but the shattered economy, hyperinflation, and joblessness have made it more desperate for many,” said William Slavick of Pax Christi Maine.

Additional information on collection may be obtained by writing to Pax Christi Maine, 242 Ludlow St., Portland, 04102, or by calling 773-6562.