Ringo Starr, David Byrne and Joan Baez Donate Items to Housing Works Auction

Ringo Starr, David Byrne and Joan Baez have donated items to Housing Works' second annual Turn It Up! auction, which remains open for bidding through October 1, 2026.

The National frontman Matt Berninger, Ani DiFranco, Richard Hell, Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen and photographer Bob Gruen are also among the donors.

The lots include a T-shirt autographed by Starr, original artworks by Byrne and Baez, and a signed drum head from Allen. Gruen has contributed a color print of his iconic photograph of John Lennon standing in front of the Statue of Liberty.

Gruen's auction entry explains the picture's origin. "The US government was trying to deport John Lennon because of his support for the peace movement during the Vietnam war so I suggested we take a picture at the Statue of Liberty to illustrate that America was supposed to welcome people," the entry reads. "Since Lennon's death, this photo has taken on a new meaning as people think of John Lennon in terms of personal freedom similar to the Statue of Liberty."

The proceeds support Housing Works, a New York City nonprofit founded in 1990 by people living with HIV/AIDS and their allies. The organization emerged during the AIDS crisis in response to what it identified as the urgent need for housing, healthcare and support for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Over the decades, Housing Works has expanded beyond its founding mission. The nonprofit now addresses housing instability, homelessness, healthcare access, HIV/AIDS and social justice, providing direct services that include housing, healthcare, behavioral health care and supportive services.

The organization also advocates for policy changes affecting New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, poverty, healthcare barriers and housing instability. Its work remains rooted in New York City, where it operates programs and services while advocating for communities that have historically faced significant barriers to housing and healthcare.

The first Turn It Up! auction ran in 2024; this year's edition marks the fundraiser's return with a roster spanning rock, folk and punk figures, from Starr and Allen to Hell and DiFranco.

Bidders can view all items and place bids through October 1, 2026, with proceeds going toward the organization's housing and healthcare programs.