Shirley Raines, a social media creator and the founder of the nonprofit Beauty 2 The Streetz, has died, the organization said Wednesday. Raines was 58, according to the group and reporting from The Associated Press.
Beauty 2 The Streetz said Raines made an “immeasurable impact” through her work supporting people experiencing homelessness, and noted that additional information would be shared when available.
Known as “Ms. Shirley” to millions online and on Skid Row
Raines built a large following on TikTok, where she was widely known as “Ms. Shirley.” Supporters and volunteers said she was a familiar presence in Los Angeles’ Skid Row and other homeless communities in California and Nevada, regularly bringing meals, hygiene supplies, and beauty services intended to restore dignity.
See more about her work and mission on the organization’s official founder page.
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Grief shaped her mission and public message
Raines spoke publicly about losing a child and how that grief helped push her toward serving people on the streets, including in remarks during national recognition for her work.
In recent years, she was also recognized beyond social media, including being named CNN’s Hero of the Year in 2021, according to multiple profiles.
Advocates say her approach centered dignity
Community members and fellow organizers described Raines as both protective and deeply respectful of the people she served, often greeting them warmly and treating everyday moments—like haircuts, meals, and clean clothing—as part of rebuilding self-worth.
Her work unfolded amid a visible homelessness crisis in Los Angeles
Raines’ outreach drew attention in part because homelessness is highly visible in downtown Los Angeles, including Skid Row. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s 2025 count reported an estimated 72,308 people experiencing homelessness across Los Angeles County.
Beauty 2 The Streetz said the cause of death has not been released.
What’s known and what isn’t
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