Clayton Library crafts comfort with more than 100 handmade donations

Submitted by the Town of Clayton

CLAYTON — More than 100 handmade knitted and crocheted hats, scarves and gloves were made and donated to Harbor Shelter in Smithfield. These thoughtful donations aim to provide warmth and relief to local individuals and families facing winter hardships.

The group from Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library’s Knit Night presented their donations, filling a table and then some with their carefully crafted garments. This marked the eighth year of partnership between the library in Clayton and Harbor Shelter, Johnston County’s only nonprofit agency supporting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and families in transition.

“So many people are fortunate to have a warm coat, hat and gloves, but in North Carolina, you never know what the weather will be like,” said Harbor Shelter Executive Director Kay Johnson. “Being able to take those items back and distribute them to those in need during these cold snaps is truly invaluable. It provides comfort and makes sure that they have something warm.”

Johnson emphasized the impact of these donations: "It’s essential, especially now, because our needs are so great within this community. We are seeing an uptick, not only in domestic violence and sexual assault but also in individuals reaching out to us.” Harbor Shelter has fielded more than 500 calls in 2024, underscoring the growing demand for its services.

Considering this increasing need, Johnson noted the significance of handmade items. “I believe that when anyone creates something with their hands, they put a piece of themselves into it. We are receiving something handmade from the heart of these individuals who have taken the time to knit these items for those we serve. It’s a special moment.”

Meg, a Clayton resident who has attended Knit Night for two years (and prefers not to have her last name used), shared her personal connection to the cause.

“At one point, I was homeless, and someone did that for us. It was very, very, very appreciated,” she said, reflecting on her time in Indiana where winter temperatures can be especially harsh. “It means everything. I personally know how much a warm cap means. It just really matters. You don't think about the tiny things the things that you take for granted.”

Knit Night has become a place of connection and fellowship for many attendees. “It’s a lot of fun, and there’s a lot of really great personalities. It’s very inclusive, and everybody’s welcome. It’s a safe place. I’m not a very social person, but I rarely miss it. It’s the only time I can sit down, and what I do is I sit down, knit and listen to an audiobook,” Meg said.

Beyond offering practical assistance, Knit Night also fosters skill-sharing and creativity. Attendees of all experience levels are welcome to bring their materials, exchange ideas, and try out resources provided by the library.

Knit Night will resume at 5:15 p.m., Wednesday, January 15. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to visit claytonlibrarync.org to learn more.