The Sagicor Foundation has set a J$150 million fundraising target for the 2026 SIGMA Corporate Run, as it embarks on a mission to help repair schools in western Jamaica that were damaged by Hurricane Melissa.

The announcement was made during the event’s launch on Thursday (December 4), held at the Sagicor Life Auditorium in New Kingston, under the theme “Run for the West”.

Christopher Zacca, president & CEO of Sagicor Group Jamaica and chairman of the Sagicor Foundation, underscored the urgency of this year’s focus in his remarks.

“With the more than 600 schools being badly damaged by Hurricane Melissa, it made our 2026 beneficiary selection obvious. Schools are safe spaces for children in many ways, and so, funds raised will help to not only repair damaged structures, but also provide safe, functional learning environments, bringing renewed hope to students, teachers, and their communities. Our goal is to get at least 3,000 students back in the classroom, in the shortest possible time.”

The five beneficiary schools include Hopewell High School in Hanover; Green Pond High School in St. James; Little London High School in Westmoreland; Salt Marsh Primary in Trelawny; and Mayfield Primary and Infant School, in St. Elizabeth. The schools were identified in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the National Education Trust, and have all experienced damage to roofs, windows, doors, classrooms, sanitary facilities, electrical systems, and water storage infrastructure. 

World 100m champion Oblique Seville, former Cabinet minister and former Miss World Lisa Hanna, and recording artiste Ding Dong were announced as patrons for the 2026 event, with the aim of bringing national pride, visibility, and strong community influence to rally support for the cause.

Race day is scheduled for February 15, 2026, and participants can walk, run, or wheel in support of education and community recovery in the most affected parishes. 

Zacca reminded everyone that together, these efforts are providing meaningful support, nurturing the next generation, and helping families in western Jamaica recover.

“Since 1999, Sagicor’s SIGMA Corporate Run has been a beacon of hope and unity, bringing together thousands to promote camaraderie, fitness, fun, and the vital spirit of giving back. Every step moves a child closer to a classroom, and every contribution helps keep their education on track. Together, we can rebuild schools, provide learning resources, and open doors to a brighter future.”

Members of the public and corporate partners are invited to contribute to this important cause. 

Donations can be made via:

• Cheque: Payable to Sagicor Foundation Jamaica
• Direct deposit: Sagicor Foundation Jamaica – Account: 5502907486 (Sagicor Bank)
• Credit card: Visit www.sagicorsigmarun.com
• Sagicor Bank credit card points: Business and individual
• PayPal: Sagicor Foundation Jamaica
• Sigma Run Shop: Sigma Run Secretariat, 28-48 Barbados Avenue, New Kingston
• Cash drop off: Sigma Run Secretariat, 28-48 Barbados Avenue, New Kingston
• Corporate sponsorship: email [email protected]