Ms. Shirley Raines
Founder and CEO
Beauty 2 The Streetz™
Shirley Raines, the visionary behind Beauty 2 The Streetz, is a true Compton native with a story as authentic as the streets she passionately serves. A life filled with adversity, deeply rooted in pain, guided her towards a bigger purpose— to be of service.
Her journey stands as a testament to the belief that everyone, irrespective of their circumstances, deserves to feel valued. Shirley responded to the call to bring beauty, support, and hope to those seen yet often overlooked by society. Through her unwavering commitment, she showcases the power of non-judgmental support in encouraging and restoring dignity.
An Unwavering Purpose
Years ago, I found myself on the brink of homelessness, struggling to provide even the most basic necessities for my child. In a desperate attempt to give him a place to stretch his legs and play, I sent him to a family member's house – an unfortunate decision that led to a tragedy. He never returned alive, and the weight of that loss stayed with me as a haunting trauma.
To heal from this profound pain, I turned to volunteering for organizations dedicated to supporting the homeless community on Skid Row in Los Angeles. It was here that I discovered a connection that would change the course of my life. The community, fascinated by my distinctive style – from eyelashes and hair color to earrings and piercings – revealed to me that I was uniquely positioned to care for them.
In the midst of my own struggles, I found purpose. Dealing with the weight of depression after losing my first child, I decided it was time to turn pain into something meaningful. That’s where Beauty 2 The Streetz was born – a mission to help those who felt as broken as I once did.
Through makeovers, hygiene services, and building authentic connections, I aimed to restore not just appearances but the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.
The year was 2017 and 'Beauty2thestreetz' was born out of my own pocket, fueled by the collective efforts of my team, friends, family, and the kindness of strangers. Together, we not only provide meals to over 400 individuals each service but also offer essential services like showers, hair care, make-up, and wigs – all rooted in the transformative power of genuine connection.
What matters most to me is the genuine bonds formed with the homeless community. They know I'll be there every week, offering more than just necessities – a genuine care that transcends the surface.
Our journey is no walk in the park. The growing number of individuals in need poses a constant struggle, but my commitment remains unwavering. With a supportive social media family and a resilient spirit, we strive to make a difference even when faced with limitations.
This is our journey – one of healing from personal trauma, embracing connection, and advocating for the dignity and well-being of every individual. Join us in this mission, where compassion knows no bounds, and every story, no matter how complex, deserves to be heard and honored.