A night of live Canadian rock music and community spirit has translated into significant support for local healthcare, with the inaugural Concert for Care raising more than $225,000 and counting for Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital (OSMH).
Held at Casino Rama Resort's Entertainment Centre on October 22, the first-ever fundraiser featured headliners The Trews and special guests Bleeker, giving concertgoers an unforgettable evening while supporting healthcare close to home.
The event carried special significance for local fans, as the Orillia-based Bleeker returned to perform in front of family, friends and hometown supporters. The night culminated with a high-energy performance by The Trews, who took their interaction with fans a step further by venturing into the crowd during their set.
Beyond the music, the evening delivered a major boost for the future of healthcare in the region.
Newly appointed OSMH President and CEO Mary Silverthorn joined OSMH Foundation President and CEO Ian Mishkel on stage to thank attendees for their support. Together, they highlighted the importance of ongoing investments in patient care today while planning for the region's future healthcare needs, including a new regional hospital.
The event also emphasized the impact of monthly giving, which provides the hospital with predictable funding to help meet current healthcare demands and plan for the future.
That message received a significant boost from Electronic Distributors International (EDI), a sponsor of Concert for Care. The company has committed to donating $1,000 for every new monthly donor, up to a total of $100,000, with the matching opportunity continuing beyond the concert until the full amount is reached.
"It takes a community to care for a community, and we all have a different role to play," said Norman Yorke, Managing Partner, EDI Inc. "Every new donor strengthens OSMH's ability to provide quality care. If our contribution inspires more people to become monthly donors, together, our collective efforts can make a meaningful difference."
The fundraising effort will continue in the days ahead through a special online auction featuring a Squier Stratocaster played by Bleeker's Tim Kehoe in the band's music video for Something on You. Proceeds from the auction will support the OSMH Foundation, with bidding open until October 30.
Concert for Care also included a limited-time 50/50 draw. Jennifer Walter of Orillia was announced as the winning ticket holder during intermission.
OSMH Foundation President and CEO Ian Mishkel said the success of the event reflects the community's commitment to supporting local healthcare.
"What made Concert for Care so special was seeing our community come together for a great night while supporting something that matters to us all," said Mishkel. "Every ticket, every donation and every new monthly donor strengthens care for patients and families across our region. We're incredibly grateful to everyone who made our first Concert for Care such a success."
While the music has ended, organizers say the opportunity to support local healthcare continues through monthly donations, helping build a stronger future for patients and families across the region.
