Christmas Eve without gas: Mitchell Houses families rely on hot plates months after partial building collapse
Gas has been restored to several buildings within the complex since the incident. But for residents like Lourdes Colon, the wait continues, and turned holiday traditions into daily challenges.
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Families at the NYCHA Mitchell Houses in Mott Haven spent Christmas Eve cooking on electric hot plates, months after a partial building collapse cut off gas service.
Gas has been restored to several buildings within the complex since the incident. But for residents like Lourdes Colon, the wait continues, and turned holiday traditions into daily challenges.
“It’s very frustrating, very uncomfortable,” Colon said. “Having a hot plate isn’t the same as having gas. We had to buy another one, and for the holidays I’m staying positive… I’m still cooking, but it’s hard.”
Colon lives in the building where the chimney collapsed, where gas remains shut off. She says she eventually bought her own after finding the one provided by NYCHA was too slow. The limitations, she says, have taken a toll at home.
Her husband, Eduardo Colon, says the impact shows up in everyday moments.
“My sister came over to visit and said she was hungry, and I couldn’t have food ready for her,” he said.
NYCHA says work is still underway in the remaining buildings and that crews are moving carefully to ensure it’s safe before gas service is fully restored.
