When "Streetsville Jason", a fixture of the Mississauga community's streets, died on Tuesday morning, a local woman decided to do something to remember him.

Julia Belmonte established a GoFundMe campaign as soon as she heard of Jason's passing, in hopes of raising enough money for a commemorative bench with a plaque. Her original target was $1,000, but hours after setting up the fundraiser, more than $5,000 had been raised.

"Any of my Streetsville locals know Jason," Belmonte wrote on her Facebook page. "It is heartbreaking to say goodbye to him."

Belmonte told CBC News that Jason, whose real name isn't known, appeared frail in recent days. She said she knew something was wrong when she didn't see him on her way to work.

Belmonte said the extra money will be donated to the group home where Jason lived for many years as well as to mental health initiatives — an issue Jason struggled with.

"This helps bring awareness to mental health. it could happen to any of us," Belmonte said.

Meanwhile, in Streetsville, someone placed flowers on Jason's favourite bench, while others shared fond memories of their encounters with the man, even if he had been begging for food or cigarettes at the time.

The neighbourhood Facebook page, Streetsville Living, is also filled with tributes to Jason.

Carmello Truscello wrote: "You were always so appreciative of whatever anyone gave you and made part of Streetsville what it is today. Whether you lived there by choice or ended up there through struggle you changed many lives and made a positive difference for so many people. You will be missed, Streetsville won't be the same without you."

And Mark Cashin posted: "It is always easy to walk by people that make us uncomfortable but today we celebrate a community that cares and takes care of everyone. I trust Jason will now find peace and happiness. RIP."

A memorial for Jason is being organized for sometime next week.