The internet is mourning the loss of Shirley Raines, a beloved community leader who dedicated her life to supporting unhoused people in Los Angeles and beyond. Raines, the founder of Beauty 2 The Streetz, passed away on Tuesday, January 27th, at the age of 58.
Among those publicly grieving is Grammy-winning singer Lizzo, who shared a tearful tribute to Raines on her Instagram Stories Wednesday, January 28th. “I am devastated,” Lizzo said, visibly emotional. “If any of you know about any of my Juneteenth givebacks, Shirley has always been a part of them, every single year.”
Lizzo recounted how she first connected with Raines after noticing her work with communities experiencing homelessness on Skid Row in Los Angeles and in Nevada. “I just had so many clothes and I saw that she was going to Skid Row and she was going to homeless communities, and she was beautifying them,” Lizzo explained. “Helping them feel seen. Helping them feel beautiful, giving them makeovers, haircuts, clothes… She used to joke, like, ‘Girl, everybody be in your clothes.’”
The singer recalled a specific instance where Raines shared the impact of Lizzo’s contributions, noting the demand for plus-size clothing. “I sent whatever I had,” Lizzo said, “And even asked Yitty to send me stuff. She was like, ‘You made the plus sized girls so happy, they feel so fly.’”
Beyond her professional collaboration, Lizzo emphasized the personal connection she shared with Raines, describing her as a source of support during challenging times. “She would always write me when I was going through things,” Lizzo shared. “And when the public was turning its back on me, she never did. She was like, ‘Stay encouraged.’” Lizzo added, “People like her are rare, special, and they deserve to be protected and honored. I’m so grateful I was able to give her, her flowers when she was here.”
Raines’ death came as a shock to many who knew her through her tireless work with Skid Row’s homeless population. According to People, Raines’ youngest daughter initiated a wellness check after being unable to reach her by phone. Police discovered Raines “unresponsive” beside her bed, with authorities reporting “no visible signs” indicating the cause of death.
Shirley Raines founded Beauty 2 The Streetz with a mission to provide not only essential resources like food and clothing, but also to restore dignity and self-worth to individuals experiencing homelessness through beauty services. Her work gained significant attention on TikTok, showcasing her dedication and the positive impact she had on the lives of others.
The loss of Raines has prompted an outpouring of grief and appreciation for her humanitarian efforts. Lizzo’s emotional tribute underscores the profound impact Raines had on those she touched, both within the communities she served and among those who admired her work from afar. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire acts of kindness and advocacy for the unhoused.
