Who Is Shirley Raines? 5 Things to Know About the Nonprofit Founder Who Died

Shirley Raines, a.k.a “Ms.Shirley,” died in January 2026, age 58.

Her death shocked her inner circle and broke hearts around the nation.She built a substantial TikTok following over the years for her work in serving and caring for the homeless, primarily in Los Angeles’ Skid Row neighborhood.

Her nonprofit, Beauty 2 The Streetz, announced the news of her untimely death in an Instagram statement on January 28, 2026.“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 announcement read.“Ms.

Shirley dedicated her life to serving others and made an immeasurable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada.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.” The organization added that Shirley’s death was “devastating to the entire Beauty 2 The Streetz team” and vowed to carry her legacy.

Here are five facts to know about Shirley’s life and work.Shirley Raines Was a Nonprofit Founder Shirley was an activist and the founder of her nonprofit organization, Beauty 2 The Streetz, which serves homeless people in L.A.

and Las Vegas with essentials.While her altruism resonated with the public, it was Shirley’s cheerful demeanor that truly struck a chord.

She regularly called anyone she served “kings” and “queens,” creating a more uplifting environment for homeless people who met her.“I think it’s important to change the narrative of what people think Skid Row is about, to see the commonalities that we have,” Shirley told CNN in 2022.

Shirley Raines Was Also a TikTok Personality Shirley’s popularity boomed on TikTok.Since starting her work with the West Coast’s home...