New Jersey is home to tens of thousands of Jamaican immigrants, and as Hurricane Dean tears up the Caribbean, residents worry about their families and friends living in that area.

The families are organizing a relief effort to send supplies to those who have lost homes. They say a wide assortment of items will be needed to help families get back on their feet.

Reverend Alfred Johnson is making room at the Clinton Avenue Presbyterian Church in Newark for relief supplies. He says there is a need for twin mattresses, linens, blankets and sheets.

Patrick Reid, of the Jamaican Organization of New Jersey, is among those leading the effort. ?There are a lot of electrical lines and buildings down,? says Reid. ?So we?re asking community members who are skilled in those trades to be available.?

Many families haven?t been able to reach their loved ones, but they say when they do, they?ll have a better idea of what is needed most in the affected area.

Anyone who wishes to assist in the relief effort should contact the Jamaican Organization of New Jersey at (973) 678-0666 or (973) 801-1923.