Mary Ellen Eron receives US$ 146,000 via viral fundraiser

Mary Ellen Eron, an 85-year-old woman who has worked cleaning an AMC cinema in Maryville, Tennessee, for over 45 years, has received significant financial support through a viral crowdfunding campaign. The initiative was started by 21-year-old Brooklyn Green, who was moved by seeing Eron performing heavy physical labor.

After Green shared a video of Eron's work on TikTok, a GoFundMe campaign quickly gained momentum. The effort ultimately raised approximately US$ 146,282 (roughly R$ 790,000), supported by more than 7,500 donors. The funds are intended to provide Eron with greater financial security for her retirement and to cover essential health and housing expenses.

While Eron initially expressed concerns that inactivity might affect her well-being, the community mobilization has provided a significant safety net for her future.