Some pictures have the power to move the hearts and minds of people around the world. That is exactly what happened with a portrait taken by Joel Cervantes Macias. His image, which has gone viral, has led to an outpouring of generosity from thousands of people that serves as a breath of fresh air during these tense times.
Macias’ picture is of 89-year-old Fidencio Sanchez who immigrated to the United States from Mexico and now lives in Chicago. Despite his age, Sanchez hits the streets every day with his popsicle cart in order to provide for his family.
Sanchez’s wife used to help him sell popsicles, but she fell ill and is no longer able to work. The couple is also still grieving over the loss of their only daughter who also helped provide for the family.
Macias was so moved by Sanchez’s story and work ethic that he started a GoFundMe account with the modest goal of raising $3,000 to help the family so that Sanchez could take a well-deserved day off. In just three days, nearly 12,000 people have donated more than $260,000 to the campaign. Sanchez and his wife are grateful for the outpouring of generosity and plan on donating half of the money raised to their local church.