WINSLOW — The car of Fr. Daniel Baillargeon, pastor of Corpus Christi Parish in Waterville, was stuffed full of coats, hats, scarves, gloves and other winter outerwear on Tuesday by children at St. John’s Regional Catholic School in Winslow.

The items were gathered by both students at the school and children in the parish’s faith formation program with the recipients being individuals and families served by Catholic Charities Maine Refugee and Immigration Services, according to a news release from Dave Guthro of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland.

“I am happy for the people who are going to receive these coats,” fourth grader Chase Larrabee said, according to the release. “It is important this time of year. Not many people do things like this. If Jesus were here right now he would do the same thing.”

“I feel good because I am doing something for Jesus,” kindergartener Madalynn Loubier said, according to the release. “It feels good to help people at Christmas.”

“Walking into school this morning it was minus 15. It is not safe to be out there. I feel very happy helping people,” fifth grader Gio St. Onge, who was also the top collector, said, according to the release. “I felt tingly when I heard that I gave the most.”

The loading began with a prayer before students formed a line from the front door of the school to Fr. Baillargeon’s car, where two students were tasked with finding room for everything. As the students passed items along the line, they said a short prayer for the person who will receive the item.

“I am proud of our students and their efforts this Advent,” Fr. Baillargeon said, according to the release. “They have truly reached out beyond themselves in service to the neediest members of our communities. They are living examples of the ‘spirit of the season.'”

Catholic Charities Maine Refugee and Immigration Services helps those seeking a new life in America to become responsible and self-reliant members of the community. The program welcomes refugees upon their arrival; meets basic needs like housing, food, and clothing; arranges for language lessons; offers community, cultural, and employment orientation; and assists with employment development and placement.

There are many ways to assist RIS in its mission. To donate items that are included in the “welcome kit” provided to refugees, visit www.ccmaine.org.