Online Fundraiser Boosts Sad Fortunes Of Chicago Popsicle Vendor, 89
(CBS) -- Timing is everything, especially for 89-year-old Fidencio Sanchez.
He knows that walking down the right street in Little Village and stopping at the right corner means he'll sell more "paletas," or fruit popsicles.
Timing is also the reason why he's now making headlines across the city and the country.
A man who happened to be at the right place and at the right time saw Mr. Sanchez do his everyday job. He felt compelled to begin a gofundme campaign to raise funds for the vendor.
In a matter of days, random strangers donated more than $135,000. The original fundraising goal was $3,000.
"God sent it at the time we needed it the most," his granddaughter, Dulce Perez, says.
Sanchez lost his one and only daughter in late July. She was his main means of support.
"After my mom's passing, they felt more burdened to not miss any days," Perez says.
Now, he has the opportunity to rest -- thanks to the generosity of strangers.
"It's just amazing the power of many people can be so big. I'm just very thankful that people had the compassion," Perez, the granddaughter, says.
The fundraising effort is expected to end on Thursday.