Fans in shock as TikTok star Shirley Raines known for work on Skid Row dies at 58
Numerous celebrities have offered their thoughts
TikTok star and Beauty 2 The Streetz founder Shirley Raines has passed away at 58, as many have been left mourning the loss of a woman who contributed significantly to those living in California's Skid Row.
Raines, often referred to by many of her followers and fans as 'Ms. Shirley', founded non-profit entity Beauty 2 The Streetz as a means of providing self-care services to 'those who need it most'.
Both her and her team would offer services like hair, makeup, hygiene, and food to those in need within her community, and was known in particular for her key work in Skid Row, California — an area known for having the largest concentration of homeless individuals across the United States.
She had earned over 5.8 million followers on TikTok and 1.2 million on Instagram, with countless videos of her vital work earning tens of millions of views across these platforms.
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It was on Wednesday, January 28, that the team at Beauty 2 The Streetz announced that Raines had tragically passed away though, sharing a powerful eulogy to the work she achieved throughout her life.
"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 statement shared to Instagram and TikTok begins.
"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 did not reveal the circumstances surrounding her death, but urged people to "keep Ms. Shirley's family, loved ones, and the Beauty 2 The Streetz family in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time," noting that 'further information' would be shared "when it becomes available."
Many celebrities and social media personalities have also offered their condolences in the comments below the post, with SZA, Coco Gauff, Lizzo, Aminé, and many others sharing their reactions and thoughts.
"My heart! I can't believe this," wrote Lizzo on Instagram, with Queen Latifah adding that "it was so beautiful and inspiring to watch you move!!!"
Beauty 2 The Streetz currently has an ongoing GoFundMe campaign where they aim to raise $250,000, of which they have achieved $207,000 of that total so far, noting that they require the funds to expand their services beyond what they can currently offer, providing a wider reach for their essential assistance.