By EMMANUEL ANOKYE

Norwood and Bedford Park were represented in this year’s city budget, with $135,000 going towards several neighborhood initiatives courtesy of the communities’ local councilman.

Mosholu-Montefiore Community Center (MMCC) within Community District 7 led the way, with $100,000 going towards the Norwood non-profit. About $25,000 went towards support programming of afterschool day camp for children with special needs, $35,000 for educational and recreational services for teens in the Teen Center in Van Cortlandt Village, and $40,000 towards recreational, leadership and computer skill building opportunities for teens.

“[MMCC] is a well-established institution that is dedicated to helping Bronxites. Historically, they have provided excellent services to the community and many members of my constituency utilize their programs,” said Councilman Andrew Cohen, who allocated monies for MMCC. The district covers Norwood, Bedford Park, Kingsbridge, Riverdale, Wakefield and Woodlawn.

Mosholu Preservation Corporation, which publishes the Norwood News, received $15,000 by Cohen that will support initiatives of the East 204th Street & Bainbridge Avenue Merchants Association in which allows the merchant group to improve quality of life conditions in the commercial corridor and draw more visitors to the business district.

“This commercial corridor is an important part of the community and I want to make sure it continues to be a shopping district people will continue to visit, “Cohen said.

Cohen also funded $20,000 Bedford Park Multi-Service Center that will support recreational, educational and social programming as well as advocacy and counseling for seniors. Funding will also help cover the cost of meals and transportation for seniors.