The event, which brought together around 300 people at the Sport Club Português in Newark, was attended by Portuguese and American authorities, including the Mayor of Vila Nova de Cerveira, Rui Teixeira, and the Deputy Mayor of Newark, Lígia de Freitas.
Rui Teixeira highlighted the importance of the solidarity gesture, stating that "the Cerveira community in Newark continues to demonstrate that distance does not weaken ties to their homeland. On the contrary, it transforms that sense of belonging into concrete acts of solidarity, with a very significant impact on the lives of our community." The mayor thanked everyone who contributed, emphasizing that "supporting the Santa Casa da Misericórdia is investing in the dignity, well-being, and quality of life of those most in need."
The funds raised will go towards modernizing the facilities of the Maria Luísa Residence, which currently houses 70 residents and requires extensive renovation to improve comfort and safety conditions, as well as to increase capacity to 120 people. The institution is also investing approximately €40,000 in the Kindergarten and plans a comprehensive restoration project for the Mercy Church, with an investment exceeding €400,000.
During the gathering, the historical initiators of this solidarity initiative, João Loureiro (deceased in 2020) and Mô, were remembered. The gathering, with over three decades of history, was revived in 2025 by Helena Castro, Mô's daughter, and has already channeled over half a million dollars to projects in Vila Nova de Cerveira.
Rui Teixeira's visit to Newark consolidated the twinning formalized on March 25, 2026, between the Municipality of Vila Nova de Cerveira and the American city, signed by the Mayor and the Mayor of Newark, Ras J. Baraka. The program included visits to various local entities and the donation of a jersey and pennant from Clube Desportivo de Cerveira to the Jack Costa Museum.
