- Shirley Raines founded Beauty 2 the Streetz, a non-profit that provides essential services to the homeless community on Skid Row in Los Angeles. What Happened To Shirley Raines’s Son?
- She was inspired to start her mission after the tragic loss of her son and her own experiences with grief and financial hardship
- Raines’ unique approach of providing hair and makeup services helps restore dignity and hope to those in need
- She adapted her organization to serve the homeless community during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Raines was named the CNN Hero of the Year in 2021, bringing much-needed attention to the homeless crisis and the work of Beauty 2 the Streetz
Shirley Raines, a remarkable woman from Compton, California, has dedicated her life to serving the homeless community on Skid Row in Los Angeles. Her non-profit organization, Beauty 2 the Streetz, provides essential services such as hair and makeup, food, clothing, hygiene items, and safety supplies to thousands of individuals in need. In 2021, Raines was named the CNN Hero of the Year, shining a spotlight on her selfless efforts and the plight of the homeless.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Shirley Raines |
| Born | Compton, California |
| Occupation | Non-profit founder, activist |
| Known For | Founding Beauty 2 the Streetz, serving the homeless community on Skid Row, being named CNN Hero of the Year in 2021 |
| Children | Demetrius (deceased) |
| Organization | Beauty 2 the Streetz |
| Awards | CNN Hero of the Year (2021) |
See Also | Kerry Katona Fears Kidnapping After Youngest Daughter Vanishes on Vacation
The Tragic Loss That Shaped Her Path
Raines’ journey to becoming a beacon of hope for the homeless community was shaped by a profound personal tragedy. In 1990, her two-year-old son, Demetrius, passed away due to accidental poisoning while staying with Raines’ grandmother. This devastating loss sent Raines into a spiral of grief, financial insecurity, and emotional turmoil that lasted for decades.
“Broken people are still very much useful.” – Shirley Raines, #CNNHero of the Year. #hero #shero
Her son died.?#Grieving parents are everywhere.
We are broken.
But we’re not giving up or giving in.#grief #grievingparents #CNNHeroes #DIPG #childhoodcancer https://t.co/Wth94AbR6G— Marcia Jacobs (@MarciaJacobs13) December 13, 2021
Finding Purpose in Skid Row
It wasn’t until 2017, when Raines joined a feeding mission on Skid Row with her church group, that she found a renewed sense of purpose. Seeing the struggles and resilience of the Skid Row community members resonated with her own experiences, and she felt a deep connection. Raines began returning to Skid Row regularly, handing out food, drinks, hygiene kits, and beauty products.
Beauty 2 the Streetz: A Unique Approach
Raines’ unique approach to helping the homeless community set her apart. She realized that providing hair and makeup services could help restore dignity and hope to those who had lost it. Raines’ colorful and dramatic personal style also attracted the interest of the Skid Row residents she served.
As Raines began livestreaming her events and posting pictures on her Beauty 2 the Streetz Instagram and TikTok pages, her efforts gained popularity. Licensed hair stylists, barbers, makeup artists, and makeup companies soon reached out to join her mission.
Adapting to the COVID-19 Pandemic
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Raines shifted the priorities of Beauty 2 the Streetz to adapt to the changing needs. She worked with health services to turn their outpost into a COVID testing and vaccination site, providing PPE and education along with the usual food and supplies. Raines also advocated for the homeless community, who had minimal access to important hygiene resources during the pandemic.
CNN Hero of the Year and Beyond
In 2021, Shirley Raines’ tireless efforts were recognized when she was chosen as the CNN Hero of the Year. This prestigious award brought much-needed attention to the homeless crisis and the work of Beauty 2 the Streetz. Raines used the $100,000 prize money to expand her organization’s feeding programs, as the need for support continued to grow.
Raines’ impact extends beyond her work on Skid Row. In 2022, she was one of 17 activists who shared the stage with Lizzo upon accepting the People’s Choice Awards for “The People’s Champion”. Her story has inspired countless individuals to take action and make a difference in their communities.
View this post on Instagram
Shirley Raines’ Net Worth: Details On Her Award Money
Details regarding Shirley Raines’ net worth are not publicly available. She is a dedicated social worker known for her efforts in raising awareness about homelessness.
In recognition of her impactful work, Raines was honored as the 2021 CNN Hero of the Year, an accolade that comes with a $100,000 award, which she plans to use to further her initiatives.
Raines’ journey has been marked by personal challenges, including financial difficulties and the profound grief following the loss of her son. Despite these hardships, she has transformed her experiences into a driving force for her mission to support the homeless community.
FAQs
Q. What is Shirley Raines’ net worth?
A. Shirley Raines’ net worth is not publicly disclosed. As the founder of a non-profit organization, her income likely comes from donations and grants rather than a high net worth.
Q. How did Shirley Raines’ son die?
A. Demetrius, Shirley Raines’ two-year-old son, died in 1990 due to accidental poisoning while staying with Raines’ grandmother.
Q. What services does Beauty 2 the Streetz provide?
A. Beauty 2 the Streetz provides hair and makeup services, food, clothing, hygiene items, and safety supplies to the homeless community on Skid Row in Los Angeles.
Q. How many people does Shirley Raines serve?
A. Raines and her team serve thousands of homeless individuals every week on Skid Row.
See Also | Graham Thorpe’s Legacy: Mental Health Awareness After His Untimely Death
Last Updated on August 20, 2024 by 247 News Around The World
