Novette Holness, a 45-year-old nursing aide from Florida, was visiting her family near where the storm made landfall on Jamaica’s southwestern coast. She said Tuesday that she was sheltering in a home where she could hear the wind whistling. A nearby school was flooded and she could see downed trees outside.

Jamaicans Abroad Helping Jamaicans At Home, also known as the JAHJAH Foundation, partnered with the owner of the Original Dumpling Shop in the Bronx to create a drop-off location for donations. The owner says donors don't need to call ahead; just stop by during operating hours.

Hurricane Melissa crossed Jamaica on Oct. 28, one of the strongest storms on record in the Atlantic basin. Officials said it’s too early to assess the damage.