Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines @beauty2thestreetz/Instagram

Shirley Raines, the founder of the US-based charity Beauty 2 The Streetz, has died at the age of 58, her family and organisation have confirmed.

Raines, who became widely known through social media for her work supporting homeless communities, was found unresponsive at her home in Nevada on 27 January 2026. Her family said no foul play is suspected. A cause of death has not been disclosed.

Tributes have since been paid to Raines, whose outreach work in Los Angeles and other cities brought national and international attention to issues of homelessness, dignity and access to basic services.

Death Confirmed By Family And Charity

In a statement, Beauty 2 The Streetz confirmed Raines' death and described her as a dedicated advocate for people experiencing homelessness. The organisation said she had devoted her life to supporting vulnerable individuals through direct outreach and community-led care.

Raines' daughter also confirmed her death, prompting an outpouring of messages from supporters, volunteers and fellow activists. Many credited her with changing how homelessness was portrayed online by focusing on personal stories and human connection.

The charity said its work would continue in line with Raines' mission, though no details have yet been released about future leadership or memorial arrangements.

Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines @beauty2thestreetz/TikTok

Work With Beauty 2 The Streetz

Raines founded Beauty 2 The Streetz to provide food, hygiene products, clothing and personal care services to people living on the streets. The organisation became known for offering haircuts, grooming and beauty services alongside meals and essential supplies.

Her outreach was largely documented through social media platforms, where she shared videos of interactions with people she supported. These posts often featured conversations and practical assistance, as well as messages encouraging respect and empathy.

Beauty 2 The Streetz gained millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram, allowing the charity to expand its reach and attract donations and volunteers. Raines regularly appeared alongside her team during street outreach events in Los Angeles, particularly in areas such as Skid Row.

Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook
Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook
Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook
Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook

Recognition And Public Profile

Raines' work received several high-profile honours. In 2021, she was named a CNN Hero of the Year in recognition of her charitable efforts. In 2025, she received a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Social Media Personality.

Supporters said these awards reflected the impact of her approach, which combined direct aid with storytelling to draw attention to the realities faced by people experiencing homelessness.

While her public profile grew through social media, Raines continued to focus on hands-on outreach. Volunteers who worked with her have described her as committed to maintaining personal involvement in the charity's day-to-day activities.

Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Instagram
Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook
Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook
Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook
Shirley Raines
Shirley Raines Shirley Raines/Facebook

Legacy And Continuing Impact

Raines' death has prompted renewed attention to the role of grassroots organisations in addressing homelessness in the United States. Her supporters say she helped challenge stereotypes by highlighting the individuality and circumstances of those living without stable housing.

Beauty 2 The Streetz said it would continue its outreach programmes in line with Raines' values. Further details about tributes or public memorials are expected to be shared by the family in due course.

Raines is survived by her daughter and extended family. Her charity work, supporters say, leaves a lasting influence on how homelessness is discussed and addressed both online and within local communities.