Shirley Raines, the founder and CEO of the nonprofit organization Beauty 2 The Streetz and a widely respected advocate for unhoused communities, has died at the age of 58. Her passing was confirmed in a statement released by the organization she built and led for nearly a decade.
“It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that Beauty 2 The Streetz announces the passing of our beloved CEO and founder, Shirley Raines, affectionately known to so many as Ms. Shirley,” the statement read.
Raines was known nationally for her hands-on, compassionate approach to serving unhoused individuals across Los Angeles and parts of Nevada. Through Beauty 2 The Streetz, she provided essential services including food, hygiene supplies, clothing, medical resources, and personal care — often delivered directly on the streets by Raines herself.
What set Raines apart was not only the scale of her work, but the dignity with which she carried it out. She consistently emphasized seeing unhoused people as individuals deserving of respect, love, and visibility. Her outreach efforts often included haircuts, makeup, and one-on-one conversations, reinforcing her belief that care and human connection were as important as material aid.
Beauty 2 The Streetz grew from grassroots street outreach into a nationally recognized nonprofit, supported by volunteers, donors, and celebrities alike. Raines frequently used social media to document her work, amplifying the voices and stories of those living unhoused while drawing attention to systemic failures contributing to homelessness.
Her presence on the streets was deeply personal. Raines was often seen greeting people by name, checking on their health, and returning regularly to ensure continuity of care. Many within the unhoused community viewed her as a trusted advocate and, for some, a lifeline.
Tributes began pouring in following the announcement of her death, with supporters describing her as fearless, selfless, and deeply committed to serving others. Volunteers and community members credited her with changing perceptions around homelessness and inspiring a new generation of advocates.
At the time of her passing, Raines remained actively involved in outreach, continuing the work that defined her life and mission. Beauty 2 The Streetz has not yet announced details regarding memorial services or future leadership but reaffirmed its commitment to carrying forward her legacy.
Shirley Raines leaves behind a powerful impact — measured not in numbers alone, but in the lives she touched, the dignity she restored, and the compassion she modeled. Her work reshaped how many view unhoused communities, and her legacy will continue through the organization she built and the countless people she served.
