KINGSTON, Jamaica — Scotia Insurance has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation and community wellness by returning as gold sponsor for the fifth annual Swim for the Sanctuary event, scheduled for this Saturday at White River House, Shaw Park Beach in Ocho Rios, St Ann.
The open-water swimming event, which serves as a critical fundraiser for the White River Fish Sanctuary, will commence at 7:00 am after being rescheduled from its original November 1 date due to Hurricane Melissa. Scotia Insurance President Debra Lopez Spence will be in attendance to present awards to the largest participating swim club, while volunteers from Scotia Insurance, Scotiabank, and the Scotia Foundation will provide operational support including marshalling duties.
In an official statement, Lopez Spence emphasized the strategic alignment between the insurer’s health philosophy and the event’s objectives. ‘At Scotia Insurance, we fundamentally believe that good health stems from intentional choices—maintaining physical activity, managing stress, and establishing balance,’ she stated. ‘This swim event powerfully demonstrates the interconnection between physical exertion, mental well-being, and aquatic environments, all of which contribute substantively to overall wellness.’
Lopez Spence further highlighted the dual significance of the initiative, noting that ‘protecting marine resources remains essential for livelihoods, food security, and sustainable development in coastal communities.’
Belinda Collier-Morrow, board member of the White River Fish Sanctuary, acknowledged the indispensability of corporate partnerships, stating: ‘Ongoing support from organizations like Scotia Insurance proves vital to the event’s continued success and sustainability. Their involvement not only advances protection efforts for the sanctuary but also reinforces the values of healthy living, community engagement, and responsible environmental stewardship.’
Now firmly established on Jamaica’s open-water swimming calendar, Swim for the Sanctuary attracts both competitive athletes and recreational participants united in their support for marine conservation and the development of Jamaica’s blue economy. The initiative has consistently raised public awareness about coastal ecosystem preservation while simultaneously promoting active lifestyles.
All generated proceeds will be directed exclusively toward conservation and management operations at the White River Fish Sanctuary, which plays a crucial role in rehabilitating fish populations and supporting sustainable practices within coastal communities.