Donation drive launched in Little Caribbean in wake of Hurricane Melissa
The donation drive comes after Jamaica took a direct hit with the Category 5 hurricane Tuesday causing widespread damage and loss of power to parts of the island.
The impacts of Hurricane Melissa are being felt in the Little Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn.
A local chef said he decided to step and collect donations to send to Jamaica.
"Flooding, loss of power," Justin Dillion said as he described the images he was receiving from family members in the country. "Today my dad said the roof flew off a couple of houses."
Dillion contacted several local businesses that agreed to put out a box for customers to drop off donations of non-perishable food and essential items that will be shipped to Jamaica.
"I'm from Jamaica, so is my familym so we had a lot of natural disaster in the area affecting my friends and family," said Dillion. "I just felt that it's important that I do give back"
Hurricane Melissa Relief drop off location include:
-Peppa's Jerk Chicken
1853 Nostrand Ave.
-Dougie's
9604 Ave L
-C & J's
875 Flatbush Ave.
-C & J's
817 Utica Ave.
-Merrittas Restaurant
223-15 Linden Blvd.
The donation drive comes after Jamaica took a direct hit with the Category 5 hurricane Tuesday causing widespread damage and loss of power to parts of the island.
Haiti was also impacted.
The country has more than 20 deaths due to major flooding.
"With a major hurricane like this Haiti always suffers," said Herold Dasque, The Hatian Americans United for Progress which is located in Little Haiti.
Dasque said he is waiting to learn what they can do to help.
"I hope our nation stays strong and keep their faith alive and keep praying," he said.
MORE: Optimum offering free calls, texts from the US to Jamaica due to Hurricane Melissa
