During the delivery ceremony of a van by the Bristol County Sheriff (Massachusetts) to the Academic Association of the University of the Azores, which was also attended by the Regional Director for Youth, Bruno Pacheco, the Regional Director for Communities, Graça Castanho, stressed "the importance of these initiative in the strengthening of ties between both sides of the Atlantic in a true network of solidarity and respect for younger generations."

Graça Castanho also stressed the Regional Government's appraisal for the Sheriff's gesture in favour of the Academic Association of the University of the Azores, saying "this is undoubtedly a recognition of the work developed by the youngsters enrolled at the Azorean university as it is necessary to provide an effective social response for those who need it."

The donation of a van is the result of a fund-raising event promoted by Thomas Hodgson among the Azorean communities which has counted with the wide acceptance of the Azorean emigrants living in the USA. In addition to the van, a financial support was granted for maintenance expenses and fuel costs.