Hello Everyone,

The Latino Chamber has started this Fundraiser to help the family of Chris Salazar and fellow Latino Chamber member Hustle N Smoke.

In September 2023, Chris Salazar was tragically shot and killed in Pueblo. He was the owner of Hustle N Smoke and left behind a loving family along with a wife and three children. Chris was a man who overcame trials, tribulations & went on to share his testimony with those around him. Chris was not only an entrepreneur, but a dedicated family man, and someone who would give you the shoes off his feet if you were in need. Chris’ soul was perfectly intricate in every way you could think of.

Chris's mother described Chris as an athletic little boy who tried every sport he came across as a child growing up. Even though he struggled with asthma, Chris never let that stop him. At the age of 4 he joined wrestling and was a proud “Growler”. He grew into a multi-talented athlete who enjoyed soccer, karate, football, basketball and a myriad of other sports. In school he was nominated as the Secretary of the Explorer Program and as with everything else, he took the responsibility seriously. At the age of 10, Chris began delivering newspapers and his mother laughed lovingly as she recalled him often accepting snacks as tips. He kept the paper route for 6 years, foreshadowing the dedication and loyalty that would be strongly apparent in his adulthood.

Chris was described as an “old school gentleman with a soft spot for women”. It was a habit for him to run to open a door for the elderly or anyone who clearly needed help. Upon learning more about Chris, it was very apparent that he obtained these traits as a young man. He born to his mother Elena, 5 days before her 18th birthday in 1995. Even before he became a father of his own children, he was a father figure to his own siblings, helping his mother every chance he had- even to the day before he passed, this never once wavered or changed.

On behalf of the Salazar family and the Hustle N Smoke team, the Latino Chamber humbly asks for your support. As you can imagine the Salazar family has experienced devastating trauma, stress, and hardship over these last few months. Caitlin Salazar, Chris's wife, has had a very difficult time managing the family business, taking care of her family, and paying for the bills while also staying afloat. Your generous contributions will go towards putting food on the table at the Salazar household and expenses related to the family business.

Any donation, no matter how small, will make a significant impact in the lives of the Salazar family. Please consider sharing this page with your friends, family, and social networks. The power of community is immeasurable, and together, we can make a difference in the Salazar family and a local Latino owned business. You can submit your donation here on Supporting Pueblo, mail your donation to the Latino Chamber office, or drop off your donation to the Latino Chamber office.