Officer Sidney Taylor may have died in December 2014, but a year later his dream came true.
Fellow Detroit police officers and Sidney’s family members stopped by his grave Sunday morning before they followed through with the Man of Steel Project in honor of Sidney who was a big Superman fan.
Before he passed away from heart problems, Sidney and his partner, Officer Mark Wallace, wanted to make care packages to hand out to the homeless.
7 Action News first reported Mark’s mission to carry out those plans on 7 Action News in early December. His goal was to make 100 packages. Since our report, donations poured in. The number of packages made by volunteers nearly quadrupled.
One volunteer, who wanted to be only be known as Tracey, had never met Wallace but saw his story on social media.
“I had already started making kits with my daughter to pass out,” Tracey said. “So then I went ahead and joined Mark to add to it. We made 50 kits of our own to give to him.”
“Essentially, when Mark does anything, he doesn’t do anything small,” said Mark’s boss Tony Potts. "So knowing when he was about to do this undertaking, it was a no-brainer to lend support.”
Mark and volunteers made up of officers, their kids, and residents handed out the care packages, blankets, gloves, hats, homemade scarves, and even food.
The care packages were filled with much needed everyday items including toothpaste, toothbrushes, lotion, soap, deodorant, and washcloths.
For the men, the packages included shaving cream and for the women, the bags were stuffed with feminine products.
Those in need were delighted and surprised to see Mark, wearing his DPD badge and Superman outfit, passing out the goodies.
“We got Superman out here this Christmas,” said Lynelle Marks, who is homeless. “That’s a wonderful thing...out here helping us get back on our feet."
The first Man of Steel Project was beyond successful. Mark told 7 Action News he could feel his partner with him, every step of the way.
“I feel his heart beating and it’s beating real strong and I’m very proud just to carry this on.”
“He’s smiling at all of us and saying good job,” said Joy Taylor, Sidney’s wife.
As Mark’s mission was complete he had one last thing to say.
“Remember this: not all police officers are bad. We are out here doing things.” Said Mark. “We’re out here protecting you.”
Mark plans to make Man of Steel Project an annual event.
