A community is in mourning after the untimely death of a beloved long-time advocate for unhoused people. According to TMZ, 58-year-old Shirley Raines was found unresponsive next to her bed in her Nevada home on Jan. 27 during a wellness check. Although the autopsy results have not been released, no foul play is suspected.
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In 2019, the Compton native founded Beauty 2 The Streetz, a non-profit organization that provides hair, makeup, hygiene and food to people in need in Nevada and the Skid Row area of Los Angeles– an effort to make them “inherently beautiful regardless of their circumstances.“
Through her community outreach, Raines built a massive platform, including nearly six million followers on TikTok and more than one million on Instagram.
On Jan. 28, the organization posted a statement on X about Raines’ passing and the profound impact she had on her community.
“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 statement read in part.
Tributes poured in on social media from fans who appreciated her shining a light on people in need.
“I will miss seeing her on my timeline. She made me see those that are struggling from mental health, or addictions in a whole new perspective. Daily we just pass by them and think they’re completely lost souls. She showed us that they’re still there,” wrote someone on X.
Others expressed their sadness at losing someone who inspired them.
“Ms. Shirley gave me hope in this world!” wrote someone on Instagram.
Singer Lizzo broke down at the news of Raines’ passing.
In a tearful tribute, she said how Raines “would always send messages of love and never ask for anything in return.”
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