The heart of Skid Row has lost its greatest champion. Shirley Raines, the visionary founder of Beauty 2 The Streetz who transformed lives through radical kindness and a touch of glamour, has passed away at 58. From mobile showers to viral makeovers, she proved that no one is ever truly forgotten. WATCH the tribute to a woman who made the world more beautiful, one soul at a time.
Shirley Raines, a Compton resident who consecrated her life to supporting the homeless and established the nonprofit Beauty 2 The Streetz, has died, her organization announced. She was 58.
“Ms. Shirley devoted her life to serving others and made an incalculable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada,” a message posted to Raines’ X account on Wednesday read. “Through her relentless advocacy, deep compassion, and steadfast commitment, she used her powerful media platform to highlight the voices of those in need and to bring dignity, resources, and hope to some of the most neglected populations”.
For years, Raines and her organization have assisted individuals experiencing homelessness across the territory, providing them amenities like hair color, makeup, and mobile showers. During the global health crisis, their aid included distributing face masks, hand sanitizers, vitamins, and more.
“They need to see a welcoming face,” she told The Times in 2020. “They need to know they’re not overlooked”.
Raines raised six children and resided in Long Beach.
WATCH: TikTok Icon Shirley Raines of Beauty 2 The Streetz Dies Suddenly at 58
“Her journey stands as a witness to the belief that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to feel esteemed,” her founder page on the Beauty 2 The Streetz website said. “Shirley answered the call to bring beauty, support, and hope to those visible yet often overlooked by society”.
This account is developing and will be updated.
