A beloved figure for helping the homeless population on Skid Row, Shirley Raines, has sadly passed away.
The activist, who many knew simply as Ms. Shirley online, founded the nonprofit Beauty 2 The Streetz and acted as CEO. They distributed food, hygiene products, and other resources to the homeless across Skid Row and other areas. She frequently posted videos of herself distributing items via viral videos on Instagram and TikTok. See her final IG video (below):
She impacted so many lives. 
According to her twin sister Sheila via TMZ on Wednesday, Ms. Shirley was found unresponsive in her Nevada home on Tuesday night following a welfare check. She wasn’t on any medication and didn’t have any known illnesses, so it was a shock to everyone. Right now, no foul play is suspected in her death as her family waits for autopsy results. She was only 58 years old. So sad.
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On Instagram on Wednesday, her nonprofit wrote in a heartbreaking statement:
“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.”
They wrapped up their post by adding:
“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. Further information will be shared as it becomes available.”
See the post (below):
She was named CNN‘s 2021 Hero of the Year and won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Social Media Personality in 2025. So devastating.
Rest in peace, Ms. Shirley.
[Image via MEGA/WENN]
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