Chicago area eight-year-old Mateo Nicasio recently gave $23 he’d received for his birthday to a homeless woman selling candy on the side of the road, telling his mom that he wanted her to be able to buy formula for her baby. His mother, Daniela Santos, captured the moment and posted it to social media, where it quickly went viral. The video showing Mateo’s spontaneous generosity has touched the hearts of viewers around the world.
As the story has gained traction, strangers have been reaching out to Santos offering birthday gifts for Mateo. When offered the chance to keep the money, he instead asked if he could use it to help more people. This led to the creation of a crowdfund campaign, with 100% of donations going to support people in need through small, direct acts of kindness.
Mateo’s mom says his compassion is part of who he is, shaped by values taught at home and her own work with children with special needs. The viral moment has not only sparked an outpouring of love and support online but has also started a broader effort to do good, with Mateo leading by example and inspiring others to give.