Follow-up Friday: East Harlem heat and a holiday tree lighting

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Many people who live in an East Harlem building say most nights, they can’t feel their heat. They reached out to PIX11 News for help restoring the heat before the holidays.

Clarrisa Alayeto says her mom is freezing in her apartment. Nilsa Baidwan, 85, says it can be so cold in her living room sometimes; she showed PIX11 how she bundles up every night.

PIX11 News has helped restore the heat and hot water for years to dozens of NYCHA buildings across New York City. PIX11 reached out to NYCHA and the management company about the complaints.

"NYCHA is in contact with the PACT property management partner for 335 E 111 Street, who are sending staff to assess the heat distribution in these units. We will work to find a suitable resolution for these residents."

Update: Since our story, heat has been restored to the building.

East Harlem Tree Lighting

Friday marks the 21st anniversary of the East Harlem holiday tree lighting. Hundreds of people gather for the magical moment each year.

PIX11's Monica Morales will host the event for the third year. The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. at 207 E. 106th St. in East Harlem.

Each year, the community and small businesses of East Harlem come together, representing myriad cultures, from holiday parranda caroling to Chinese Lion Dance.

The tree decorations are made from recycled materials such as plastic bottles and milk containers. Explorers from the 23rd Precinct Community Council will give dozens of toys to the children.