Shirley Raines, the founder and CEO of Beauty 2 The Streetz, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the homeless community on Los Angeles’ Skid Row, has passed away at the age of 60. The announcement was made by her organization on Wednesday morning, March 6, 2024.
According to a statement from Beauty 2 The Streetz, Raines “dedicated her life to serving others and made an immeasurable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada.” Through her advocacy, she utilized her media platform to amplify the voices of those often overlooked, bringing dignity, resources, and hope to underserved populations.
Impact on Skid Row Community
For years, Raines provided beauty services, food, and personal care to homeless individuals in Skid Row, a neighborhood known for its high population of people experiencing homelessness. Raines described the challenge of earning trust within this community, stating, “It took a long time to earn that trust. I’m asking someone to close their eyes, lay their head back and be vulnerable.” Her commitment involved visiting the area every Saturday to build relationships with those she served.
Raines’ journey into philanthropy began after a personal tragedy: the loss of her child. Seeking a way to give back, she began feeding the homeless through another nonprofit. It was through this experience that she recognized the interest many women had in beauty, hair, and makeup. “Of course makeup is not going to take them off the streets, but it’s a small escape from this terrible reality they’re living in,” she said. “They look in the mirror and see something other than homelessness.”
Despite working full-time, Raines managed to prepare meals for 400 to 600 individuals each week from her one-bedroom apartment. “Monday through Friday, someone is saying ‘get out of the way, you bum.’ On Saturday, someone is saying, ‘you’re important. You’re special,'” she reflected on the stark contrast in how society treated the homeless.
Personal Resilience and Connection
Originally from Compton, California, Raines had firsthand experience with hardship. She shared a deep connection with the women she encountered on Skid Row, stating, “I’m a woman who actually lived this life in the streets, buried a child, went through traumatic relationships, was almost homeless myself.” Her personal story fueled her passion for helping others navigate their struggles.
Details regarding the cause of Raines’ death have not been publicly disclosed. Beauty 2 The Streetz requested that the community keep Raines’ family and loved ones in their thoughts during this difficult time. “We humbly ask that you keep Ms. Shirley’s family, loved ones, and the Beauty 2 The Streetz family in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read. Further information regarding her passing will be shared as it becomes available.
Shirley Raines will be remembered not only for her dedication to the homeless community but also for her ability to inspire others and create a lasting impact. Her legacy will continue to influence the lives of many who were touched by her compassion and unwavering commitment to service.
