Tribute to Chandler Gayton

Chandler Gayton (left) with King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay at the opening of LIHI’s Progressive Skyway Village

Chandler Gayton was killed on July 20th in a vehicular accident in Lake City.

Obituary (Seattle Times) 

Obituary (Dignity)

"Today I and so many mourn Chandler Gayton, an incredible advocate, community leader, houser, and change maker, a young leader with an incredible past and future - whose work and impact deserves to be seen. I mourn with so many who had the opportunity to know and work with Chandler, you know his unwavering dedication to showing up and centering community in all that he did.

The pictures below are from the opening of the first Tiny House Village in Skyway, Washington, the first project I worked on with Chandler. Each day, I saw him sit through hours of meetings, advocate for resources, and push everyone around him harder, all in the service of those most vulnerable among us. This village still serves homeless people. He went on to secure millions of dollars of affordable housing dollars to deliver the first LIHTC housing in Skyway (LIHI's upcoming Skyway Family Housing & Preschool), combatting displacement and fighting historic disinvestment in the neighborhood. This was only one small victory Chandler delivered for community.

"While we don't always get the chance to walk alongside one another for the entirety of our journeys, his life and legacy will always remind us of why we do our work and how much more there is left to do. I am heartbroken, as I know many of you are,” said Naomi See, a former LIHI intern who worked with Councilmember Zahilay and Chandler on establishing Progressive Skyway Village and funding affordable housing in Skyway.

“We could not have set up a tiny house village in unincorporated King County without the help of CM Zahilay and Chandler. Their legislative effort led to council action that allowed LIHI to establish Progressive Skyway Village. Councilmember Zahilay and Chandler worked with the Skyway Coalition and housing advocates to set aside funds in the budget for affordable housing in Skyway—which has long been an underserved and marginalized community. LIHI is now developing 50 units for families and singles in Skyway that includes an early learning center to be operated by Akin (formerly Childhaven). We honor Chandler and will cherish his legacy,” said Sharon Lee, LIHI Executive Director. 

Since opening its doors in April 2022 at 12431 56th Pl S, Seattle, WA Progressive Skyway Village has been a refuge for individuals, couples, and families experiencing homelessness. LIHI, in collaboration with the Seattle Word of God Church, developed this tiny house village that offers 33 shelter units designed to provide a safe and supportive environment.

The village boasts essential facilities, including a community kitchen, a case management office, and a hygiene facility. The site includes 24/7 staffing, with dedicated case managers offering services such as housing navigation, basic needs assessments, job training, and other supportive resources.

Since its inception, Skyway Village has positively impacted 157 households. Of these, 96 households have successfully transitioned to stable housing.