Since the 18th CPC National Congress, Shenzhen's public coffers have offered 27.2 billion yuan (US$3.94b) in poverty relief funds for the above-mentioned regions. (A total of 34.7 billion yuan was given since the launch of "pairing-assistance" programs. Statistics updated for September 30, 2018). During the period, 3,100 Shenzhen officials, doctors and teachers were sent to the regions. About 30,000 projects were launched to upgrade education, health care, housing, roads, farming irrigation, public service and other infrastructure facilities. Trainings were provided for some 20,000 local talents. So far in 2018, 4.845 billion yuan and 669 Shenzhen talents were invested to help the regions.