ATLANTA — A community gathering in Atlanta on Saturday afternoon honored the life of Cornelius Taylor, while also providing direct support to people experiencing homelessness.
Organizers handed out hot meals, hats, and jackets to those in need during the event, which was held in Taylor’s memory. Taylor was killed last year when a front loader struck his tent during the clearing of the Old Wheat Street homeless encampment.
“We thank you for letting us assemble in the name of Cornelius Taylor, Lord. Let us not forget his name,” one speaker said during the gathering.
Taylor’s son, Justin Garrett, was at the giveaway helping out.
“I really appreciate what everyone is doing, and I would hope that it continues honestly and everyone continues to come out and do things like this to make sure homelessness does end in Atlanta,” Garrett said.
Organizers estimated about 400 people were expected to attend. Many said Taylor’s story resonated with them, even if they never met him.
“The only person who missed out on Cornelius is me because I didn’t get a chance to see him, but I can see the result of his life. This is wonderful,” said Hustle, who attended the event.
While organizers acknowledged progress from the City of Atlanta since Taylor’s death and the clearing of the encampment, they say more support is still needed for people transitioning out of homelessness.
“You can’t take folks that have been living on the streets for years and years and give them a roof over their head and then be like, ‘be great,'” said organizer Krysten “Redd” Tolliver. “They still need jobs, they still need stability, they still need wraparound services.”
Following Taylor’s death, a coalition was formed in his name to advocate for people living on the streets and to push for long-term solutions to homelessness in Atlanta.
On Friday, advocates held a candlelight vigil and laid a wreath in honor of Cornelius, marking one year since his tragic death.
