The Salvation Army Celebrates National Doughnut Day

Doughnut Day began in 1938 in Chicago, and since then, it has been celebrated worldwide on the first Friday of June. You may be surprised to discover a deep history between these tasty treats and The Salvation Army.

In 1917, Salvation Army volunteers went to the frontlines of the First World War in France, where they established social centres and canteens. Soldiers had the opportunity to secure essential items and receive some baked doughnuts, writing supplies and clothes-mending services. It was challenging to bake during the war, so two lassies began frying doughnuts in soldiers’ helmets!  The Salvation Army’s doughnut lassies served hope and happiness to soldiers on the battlefield and boosted morale.

“The Salvation Army’s doughnut lassies served hope and happiness to soldiers on the battlefield and boosted morale”

Centuries later, the tradition of Doughnut Day continues across Canada. Last year, The Salvation Army in the Maritimes worked with a local doughnut shop that created a ‘Salvation Army’ doughnut, which they distributed to first responders. All the proceeds from the special doughnut were donated to The Salvation Army.

Last year, a team of Salvation Army workers in the Toronto area stopped by several transit locations, the Canada Post Delivery Centre, and a Salvation Army childcare centre in Mississauga. The group distributed doughnuts and thanked staff members for their dedication. The staff was more than pleased and thankful for the sweet delivery. This year, throughout Ontario, The Salvation Army will safely distribute 7,000 doughnuts to essential workers: 2,000 in Ottawa, and 5,000 between Toronto, Hamilton, and London.

Today, The Salvation Army serves these delicious doughnuts to thank and support all essential workers”

Before the pandemic hit, The Salvation Army in Vancouver distributed free doughnuts to the public. Last year, The Salvation Army’s Abbotsford Centre of Hope organized the safe distribution of free doughnuts at a local mall. Though COVID-19 changed how they celebrate, The Salvation Army’s Vancouver office thanked staff for their hard work and safely delivered doughnuts at several locations throughout the city.

In past years, The Salvation Army has delivered doughnuts within communities to celebrate. Today, The Salvation Army serves these delicious doughnuts to thank and support all essential workers, especially during these unique times.  From coast-to-coast, we can honour and echo the work of the doughnut lassies and give hope to hundreds on the frontlines.

Please find our century-old recipe so you can bake and enjoy these historical treats in the comfort of your own home!

By: Sharifa Duncan