Honoring a Sweet Tradition: The Salvation Army Celebrates National Donut Day in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH (May 20, 2025) – Every year, on the first Friday of June, America satisfies its sweet tooth by celebrating National Donut Day. This year, the sugary tradition will take place June 6, offering The Salvation Army a moment to highlight its founding role and the true history behind the holiday.

During World War I, brave women volunteering with The Salvation Army traveled to France, setting up field bases near the front lines. In makeshift huts, they provided soldiers with vital supplies, spiritual and emotional support, and, of course, freshly fried donuts. These sweet treats became a symbol of comfort and a morale booster amid the war. Known as the “Donut Lassies,” these women are often credited with popularizing the donut in the United States when the troops returned home.

In 1938, the first-ever National Donut Day was celebrated in Chicago to both honor the legacy of the Donut Lassies and act as a fundraiser to assist those struggling during the Great Depression. Now, 87 years later, The Salvation Army continues to provide essential services and programs to vulnerable communities in nearly every ZIP code in the country and throughout 28 counties in Western Pennsylvania.

“National Donut Day offers The Salvation Army a sweet opportunity to serve those who have served our country,” said Commissioner Nancy Moretz from The Salvation Army of Western Pennsylvania. “This day reminds us that even a small, kind gesture can bring hope and light in dark times. We deeply appreciate our local partners for being committed to our community and for making this sweet celebration a reality.”

“Donut” miss out on this year’s National Donut Day events in Pittsburgh! The Salvation Army is proud to once again partner with Giant Eagle along with Pittsburgh McDonald’s Owner Operators and a local bakery.

• Sweet Deal: On Friday, June 6, Giant Eagle stores will be running a delicious deal on a dozen donuts for just $6. Valid only at participating Giant Eagle and Market District locations while supplies last. Must scan Giant Eagle Loyalty Card.
• Giveaway: Stop by the Giant Eagle Market District in Robinson Township (100 Settlers Ridge Center Drive) from 10 – 11 a.m. for free donuts and coffee, while supplies last, and to say hi to your favorite on-air personalities from iHeart Media Pittsburgh’s 94.5 3WS.
• Honoring Service: The Salvation Army and Giant Eagle’s Veterans Business Resource Group will be hosting a gathering at Veterans Place (945 Washington Blvd) on Friday morning to serve donuts, provide care bags and share resources with local veterans.
• Special Delivery: Pittsburgh McDonald’s Owner Operators, in partnership with Krispy Kreme, will provide 35 dozen donuts and 35 coffee Joe’s of McCafé® coffee to veterans and staff at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (1010 Delafield Road). The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services, Donut Lassies, Grimace the mascot, along with reps from McDonald’s and the VA will begin the delivery at approximately 11:30 Friday morning.
• Bell Ringing: Those waiting in line to purchase donuts and desserts can make a donation to The Salvation Army at both Bethel Bakery locations (Bethel Park and Canonsburg). From 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. volunteer bell ringers will be stationed outside the stores bringing cheer to customers.

Celebrating nearly 160 years of global service as both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 134 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, visit salvationarmywpa.org. The Salvation Army … doing the most good for the most people in the most need.