Costa Rican President Investigated 

The Costa Rican Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation into President Rodrigo Chaves for the alleged crime of abuse of power due to a planned trip to Latvia after his participation in the EU-CELAC summit in Belgium. The investigation is based on the use of public funds for purposes not intended for them and carries penalties of two to eight years in prison. The trip is to meet with the Latvian President-elect Edgars Rinkevics. Communications Minister Jorge Rodríguez has defended the trip, emphasizing that it is “official” and that it is an opportunity to generate new investment opportunities, cultural exchange, and strengthen Costa Rica’s participation in the world. The Prosecutor’s Office did not provide further details about the investigation.

Protests Down Costa Rica’s Main Highway

On Wednesday morning, residents of La Carpio, San José, Costa Rica, blocked the General Cañas Highway to protest the Ministry of Public Education’s lack of support for the local Technical Professional College. The protesters are demanding the restoration of 54 scholarships that were revoked while the college is relocated to Rafael Vargas Quiros School in Tibás. This has left many students without the means to get to school or afford meals. The community revealed that until recently, classes were held in a rented commercial space due to the lack of proper facilities. The MEP released a statement on Wednesday afternoon addressing the protesters’ concerns, saying that they are committed to providing quality education to all students, and that they are working to resolve the issue of the revoked scholarships. The community is hopeful that the MEP will take their concerns seriously and that the situation will be resolved soon.

Shelter for Migrant Children in Danger of Closing

Fundación Lloverá, a shelter in San José, Costa Rica, is in danger of closing due to lack of funding. The shelter has a capacity to receive 40 people, most of whom are minors. It provides psychological care, basic water and sanitation services, educational support, and early stimulation to migrant children who are often forced to travel long distances with their families in search of a better life. The shelter is a vital resource for these children, many of whom have experienced trauma and violence.

Maintaining the shelter represents a monthly investment of approximately US$12,000. Fundación Lloverá is asking for everyone’s help to keep the project alive. Those interested in donating can do so through the foundation’s website. Donations of toys, children’s clothes, and non-perishable food are also accepted.

The need for a shelter for migrant children in Costa Rica is great. Thousands of families from Central America and other parts of the world transit through the country each year in search of a better life. If you are interested in helping the shelter in San José, you can make a financial donation, donate toys, children’s clothes, or non-perishable food, or spread the word about the shelter and encourage others to donate. Any donation, no matter how small, makes a difference for the children who are served by the shelter.

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