‘They really saved my life … So I wanted to give back to them — that’s where this all started,’ says organizer of popular OSMH fundraiser
After raising more than $114,000 over the past eight years, Angie Green-Hill’s annual mental health auction is back — and stronger than ever.
The online fundraiser, which supports the mental health department at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH), returns next week with hundreds of donated items, new sponsors, and a growing community of supporters.
Green-Hill, who launched the auction after her own experience as a patient on the hospital’s sixth floor, says the event continues to thrive despite recent challenges — including the early spring ice storm and widespread financial strain.
“I didn’t want to ask any companies or local businesses for donations when they were already losing thousands of dollars,” she said. “But it has come full circle. The donations are still pouring in.”
Green-Hill says her time in OSMH’s day program gave her the tools she needed to survive and rebuild.
“They really saved my life. They taught me how to breathe through things, how to cope with stress,” she said. “So I wanted to give back to them — that’s where this all started.”
After taking a one-year break in 2024 to focus on her own mental health, Green-Hill returns with renewed energy and support. She says things are more balanced this year — family and work responsibilities have stabilized, and the community has continued to rally around the cause.
“There’s a better understanding of mental health now,” she said. “People notice when their neighbour hasn’t left the house in five days — they check on them. That stigma is starting to fade.”
Green-Hill’s eighth auction is backed by both longtime supporters and new sponsors. She singled out Ax Men Axe Throwing, now under new ownership, as her top sponsor this year, along with continued support from Jim Wilson Chevrolet Buick GMC.
“They’ve both stepped up in a big way,” she said. “But I’ve had support from sponsors of all sizes. It’s been amazing.”
While the auction has typically raised about $10,000 each year, Green-Hill doesn’t set lofty targets.
“I like to keep the goal small,” she said. “But we’re at $114,000 total, and I’d love to hit $120,000 this year.”
The funds have already made a visible difference at the hospital, including the addition of puzzles, games, workout equipment, and clothing for patients in need. One particularly meaningful change, the naming of a room on the sixth floor in her honour.
“It’s embarrassing,” Green-Hill said with a laugh. “But if they’re naming a room after me, the money must be doing something good.”
This year, for the first time, Green-Hill has asked nursing staff to decide how the money will be used.
“They see it every day. They know what’s needed more than anyone,” she said. “I want them to feel part of this.”
In addition to the online auction, a second annual cornhole tournament has been added to the mix. Scheduled for June 1, the tournament includes music, games, competitions, and more — all proceeds going to the hospital’s mental health unit.
With the auction kicking off next week and excitement already building, Green-Hill says she’s grateful for how far the community has come in recognizing the importance of mental health — and how far it’s willing to go to support it.
“Everyone seems to suffer at some point,” she said. “It may not be as drastic, but people get it now. That’s why they keep showing up.”
For more information about the auction and to register, click here.
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