KINGSTON, Jamaica — Scotia Insurance is once again supporting Swim for the Sanctuary as a gold sponsor, as the annual open-water swim returns for its fifth staging this Saturday.

The charity event will be held at White River House, Shaw Park Beach in Ocho Rios, St Ann, beginning at 7:00 am. The event, which raises funds for the White River Fish Sanctuary, was originally scheduled for November 1 but was postponed due to Hurricane Melissa.

Debra Lopez Spence, president of Scotia Insurance, will be on location to present the award to the largest participating swim club. Volunteers from Scotia Insurance, Scotiabank and the Scotia Foundation will support event operations, including marshalling.

Lopez-Spence, in a media release, noted that the event’s focus on timing, movement and connection to the natural environment aligns closely with Scotia Insurance’s emphasis on preventative health and overall wellness.

“At Scotia Insurance, we strongly believe that good health is built through intentional choices — staying active, managing stress and creating balance,” said Lopez Spence.

“Events like Swim for the Sanctuary highlight the powerful connection between physical activity, mental well-being and being close to the water, which has proven benefits for overall wellness. As a provider of critical illness insurance, prevention and healthy living are central to our purpose, and supporting initiatives like this allows us to champion those values in a meaningful way,” she added.

She also underscored the broader community and environmental impact of the swim, noting that protecting marine resources is essential to livelihoods, food security and sustainable development.

“The continued support from partners like Scotia Insurance is critical to the success and sustainability of Swim for the Sanctuary,” said Belinda Collier-Morrow, board member of the White River Fish Sanctuary.

“Their commitment not only helps us protect the White River Fish Sanctuary, but reinforces the importance of healthy lifestyles, community involvement and responsible stewardship of our marine resources,” she added.

Now a staple on Jamaica’s open-water swimming calendar, Swim for the Sanctuary brings together competitive and recreational swimmers in support of marine conservation and the protection of Jamaica’s blue economy.

Over the years, the initiative has helped to raise awareness about the importance of preserving coastal ecosystems while promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles.

All proceeds from Swim for the Sanctuary will go directly toward the ongoing conservation and management of the White River Fish Sanctuary, which plays a vital role in restoring fish stocks and supporting coastal communities.