The earthquake of January 8 that hit the areas of Vara Blanca and Cinchona is estimated to have left us$136 million dollars in losses in damaged homes and infrastructure and basic services, job losses and the environment, according to figures released by the government.

The Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE) - national emeregency commission - recevied some us$2.5 million dollars in donations, not including the ¢1.4 billion colones (us$2.4 million) from a trust collected by way of a marathon by Repretel (local television and radio stations) that will be used to build the "La nueva Cinchona".

According to the ministerio de la Presidencia, from January to June 24, the government has spend ¢789.8 million colones (us$1.3 million) in food, machinery and repairing homes in the affected area. The money was also used to rent helicopters, the only way to reach the affected communities, among other items.

The report indicates that 265 families voluntarily accepted being relocated in 14 communities projects built outside the earthquake area.

Another 287 families that suffered job losses by the breadwinners received help from the government, in the amount of ¢130.000 colones (us$225) monthly, the report says.

In addition, the IMAS has invested another ¢426.036.222 (us$738.000) to help the affected families. The IMAS proceeds comes from profits from the operation of the duty free shops at the country's two international airports.