Shirley Raines, Beauty 2 The Streetz Founder, Dies at 58

The philanthropist and activist was a mother to six children, including son Demetrius whose death inspired her work with the homeless

Jan. 29, 2026 at 12:55pm

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Shirley Raines, the founder of the charitable organization Beauty 2 The Streetz, has died at the age of 58. Raines became well known on social media for her work delivering food, hygiene products and other resources to people living on Skid Row in downtown Los Angeles. Raines was a mother to six children - Demetrius, Danielle, Rashawn, Dalvion, Macajiah and Micah. Her eldest son Demetrius tragically died of an accidental overdose at the age of 2, which Raines said inspired her to work with the homeless community.

Why it matters

Raines' death is a major loss for the Los Angeles homeless community, as she used her platform to amplify the voices of those in need and provide vital resources and dignity to underserved populations. Her work and legacy will continue to inspire others to give back and support the most vulnerable in their communities.

The details

Raines founded Beauty 2 The Streetz in 2016 and became known for posting videos on Instagram and TikTok of her delivering food, hygiene products and other necessities to people living on Skid Row. She often included her children in her advocacy work, though they initially struggled with adjusting to their mother's public image. Raines credited the philanthropic work with helping repair her relationships with her kids.

  • Raines welcomed her first child, son Demetrius, in 1987 when she was 22 years old.
  • Demetrius tragically died of an accidental overdose just five days before his 3rd birthday in 1990.
  • Raines founded Beauty 2 The Streetz in 2016.
  • Raines' death was announced on January 28, 2026.

The players

Shirley Raines

The founder of the charitable organization Beauty 2 The Streetz, who became known for her work delivering food, hygiene products and other resources to people living on Skid Row in downtown Los Angeles.

Demetrius Stephens Jr.

Raines' eldest child, who tragically died of an accidental overdose at the age of 2, which inspired Raines' work with the homeless community.

Danielle

Raines' daughter, who was pregnant at the time of her mother's death and called the police to conduct a wellness check after being unable to reach Raines.

Sally Logan

Raines' grandmother, with whom Demetrius was staying when he accidentally got into a relative's prescription medication and died.

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What they’re saying

“Her life and her legacy is a testament to the fact that you don't have to be perfect to do something powerful and meaningful.”

— Danielle, Raines' daughter (PEOPLE)

What’s next

Raines' family and the Beauty 2 The Streetz organization are planning a memorial service to honor her life and legacy.

The takeaway

Shirley Raines' work with the homeless community in Los Angeles, inspired by the tragic loss of her young son, demonstrated the power of one person to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Her dedication and compassion will continue to inspire others to follow in her footsteps and support those in need.