Shirley Raines, Founder of Beauty 2 The Streetz, Passes Away at 58
HENDERSON, Nev. — Shirley Raines, the founder of the nonprofit Beauty 2 The Streetz, has passed away at the age of 58. Her family found her unresponsive in her Nevada home, and while they suspect no foul play, an official cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy.
A beloved figure known as "Ms. Shirley," Raines was a dedicated advocate for the unhoused, delivering meals and beauty services across Los Angeles and Nevada. Her organization confirmed her death on social media, highlighting her profound impact on homeless communities.
"Ms. Shirley dedicated her life to serving others and made an immeasurable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada," the organization shared. "Through her tireless advocacy, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment, she used her powerful media platform to amplify the voices of those in need and to bring dignity, resources, and hope to some of the most underserved populations."
According to reports, Raines was found during a welfare check at her home on Tuesday night. Her efforts in social advocacy gained her millions of followers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram as she documented her organization’s initiatives on Skid Row and surrounding areas.
Raines combined her 26-year career in medical billing with her mission to provide food, hygiene kits, and beauty services, earning recognition as CNN’s 2021 Hero of the Year and the NAACP’s 2025 Social Media Personality award.
Notably, she focused on issues affecting college students, especially during a food giveaway event at California State University, Long Beach, where she highlighted that 42% of students at the institution face food insecurity.
An official cause of death remains undisclosed, but Raines’ family is awaiting clarity from the autopsy report. Meanwhile, details regarding a memorial service or funeral will be shared by Beauty 2 The Streetz in the coming days. Supporters are already contributing to a GoFundMe campaign initiated by the nonprofit, which has raised over $200,000 to continue her work in the community.
