Celebrating the 79th National Donut Day
Roseville, Minn. – Did you know that The Salvation Army is often credited with popularizing the donut in the United States? It all started on the battle fields of France during World War I when Salvation Army volunteers–affectionately called Donut Girls, or Donut Lassies– served coffee and donuts to soldiers in the trenches, to help boost their spirits.
“The donuts were so popular that when the soldiers returned home, they wanted to buy them. So local bakers jumped in to fill this new demand for donuts,” said Major Jeff Strickler, Twin Cities Commander.
National Donut Day was started by The Salvation Army in Chicago in 1938, both as a fundraiser and to honor the legacy of the Donut Girls.
Today, bakeries around the country celebrate the day with special deals. You can find free donuts and special deals around Minnesota and North Dakota.
All Twin Cities Salvation Army Family Stores will be giving away free donuts on June 3, courtesy of Entenmann’s Bakery, while supplies last.