National Donut Day 2017 marks a century since the work of the original “Donut Lassies” in World War I.
According to the Salvation Army, despite discovering that serving baked goods would be difficult considering the conditions of the huts and the limited rations, two officers – Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance – began frying donuts in a small fry pan.
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These tasty treats boosted morale and won the hearts of many soldiers. The Donut Lassies are often credited with popularizing the donut in the United States when the troops returned home from war.
The donut now serves as a symbol of the many social services The Salvation Army provides to more than 25 million people in need each year.
To join in on the fun, the Salvation Army is encouraging people to share a donut with someone as a reminder that #GivingIsSweet.
GET FREE DONUTS!
- Dunkin' Donuts: Get a free classic donut of your choice (while supplies last) with the purchase of any beverage.
- Krispy Kreme: The chain is offering customers one free doughnut all day at participating shops.
- Entenmann's: Doughnut lovers canenter a contest to win free Entenmann's donuts for a year.
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