National Donut Day: The Sweet History Behind The Salvation Army’s Most Famous Treat
Every year on the first Friday of June, Americans celebrate National Donut Day with free treats, special deals and plenty of sprinkles. Did you know that behind the sweetness is a story rooted in compassion, courage and service?
National Donut Day was established by The Salvation Army in 1938 to honor the women volunteers who served alongside American soldiers during World War I. Known as the “Donut Lassies,” these women provided spiritual care, supplies, encouragement and freshly fried donuts to troops stationed on the front lines in France.
In 1917, after a request for support from Gen. John J. Pershing, approximately 250 Salvation Army officers and volunteers traveled overseas to support soldiers during the war. Working in small huts near the front lines, volunteers distributed clothing, supplies and homemade food to homesick troops.
Faced with limited baking equipment, Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance began frying donuts in helmets and makeshift pans. The simple treats quickly became a symbol of comfort and hope during one of history’s darkest times. At the height of their efforts, up to 9,000 donuts were served daily to soldiers.
When troops returned home, so did their love for donuts — helping popularize the pastry across America.
Throughout the Great Depression, The Salvation Army continued serving donuts while helping struggling families meet basic needs. In 1938, the first National Donut Day was established in Chicago as both a fundraiser and tribute to the Donut Lassies’ lasting legacy.
Today, nearly nine decades later, The Salvation Army continues serving communities in nearly every ZIP code throughout Michigan through food assistance, shelter, youth programs, utility assistance, disaster relief and more.
To celebrate National Donut Day this year, The Salvation Army Great Lakes Division will host community events and donut giveaways across Michigan, continuing the tradition of sharing comfort, kindness and connection with neighbors and local heroes.
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In Battle Creek, volunteers will distribute donuts to veterans at the VA Hospital as well as local fire, police and ambulance stations, thanks to support from local Family Fare stores in Calhoun and Barry counties.
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In Kalamazoo and Kent County, officers, board members and staff will be delivering donuts to first responders and veterans.
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Metro Detroit will host a fun, family-friendly celebration at the Royal Oak Corps Community Center featuring a Sweet & Savory Donut Tasting Food Truck Challenge. Guests can sample creative donut creations from local food trucks and vote for their favorite while enjoying games, music and activities for all ages.
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Detroit Temple will honor local law enforcement officers by delivering donuts to officers who have gone above and beyond in serving their community.
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Downriver will share donuts with police and fire departments throughout the community as a simple gesture of appreciation and gratitude.
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Livingston County will celebrate by handing out donuts and connecting with community members through local outreach efforts.
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In Niles officers and volunteers will be delivering donuts to local community service workers.
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Midland will provide donuts for staff and visitors as a way to spread joy and recognize the history behind National Donut Day.
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Muskegon staff and officers will be delivering cookies to five of their community businesses that supply them with weekly food donations for their food pantry
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In Saginaw, volunteers will deliver donuts to first responders and local service organizations, with each package sharing the story and history of National Donut Day and the Donut Lassies.
The donut was — and still is — a taste of home and a symbol of comfort. Whether you share a donut with a neighbor, volunteer in your community or donate to support local programs, you can help continue the tradition of spreading joy this National Donut Day.
Original Salvation Army Donut Recipe
Yields approximately 60 donuts
Ingredients:
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2 large eggs
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5 cups flour
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2 cups sugar
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5 teaspoons baking powder
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¼ tablespoon salt
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1¾ cups milk
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1 tub lard*
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Powdered sugar for dusting
*Butter or vegetable oil can be substituted for lard.
Directions:
Combine all ingredients except the lard to form the dough. Knead thoroughly, roll smooth and cut into rings less than ¼-inch thick. Heat lard in a deep pan and carefully drop in donut rings, allowing them to brown gradually. Turn donuts several times while frying. Remove from oil, allow excess oil to drip off and dust with powdered sugar. Let cool and enjoy!