Honouring Essential Workers on National Doughnut Day

This past Friday, June 5^th, The Salvation Army celebrated the annual National Doughnut Day, commemorating efforts made by the Army’s ‘Donut Lassies’ who served on the front lines of World War 1.

In years past, members of the Army have gone out into and around the city to deliver doughnuts to the community and celebrate what it means to have a small token of appreciation during challenging times

But with a global pandemic looming overhead, the team realized that something different had to be done. And thus it was decided to honour the hard working men and women, working in essential jobs, keeping the heartbeat of the city alive.

The team first stopped by several TTC locations around Toronto, distributing doughnuts and taking a moment to thank operators, managers and other staff members for their dedication to keeping the city running and transporting civilians who need the services the most. The TTC staff was more than pleased and thankful for the sweet delivery.

“Covid-19 has been really challenging, but it’s really brought out the best in our employees,” said Robert Smith, Head of Bus Transportation at the TTC. “We’ve seen such incredible efforts to deliver a good service to the customers who need us most and the generosity of our employees has really come out over the course of the last several months.”

The pandemic has brought about a whole slew of change in how we approach our daily lives, and the day to day operations of an organization who provides essential transportation to the city was definitely one of them.

“Change is always difficult when you run an operation and the operation is so regimented,” said Robert, adding that “sometimes turning that ship can be difficult.”

But he praised his employees and the professionals at the TTC, both behind the scenes and those turning the wheel, for “showing their ability to be nimble and to work within change.”

The Salvation Army team also made a stop at the Canada Post Delivery Centre in Mississauga.

The employees were very touched and the donut delivery put a big smile on their faces. The staff went as far as even doing their own research on the ‘Donut Lassies’ and even created a wonderful sign for our Army officers.

“We are truly blessed to have such hardworking employee’s willing to leave their families daily and try to deliver happiness to all of Canada within our reach,” said Wayne Gray-Baker, Superintendent at the Delivery Centre.

Lastly, the Army made a stop at one of their very own ministry units, at the childcare centre in Erin Mills, Mississauga. The doughnut delivery allowed for a token of appreciation and a moment to thank the staff who has been diligent in following protocol but also providing a service to the families of front-line workers.

Doughnut Day has always been an especially sweet celebration and even more so this year. To be able to thank men & women, workers who are out on the front lines and keeping the city running smoothly was a honour for The Salvation Army.

Throughout the division, this day served as a moment to stop and simply be thankful for the people in our lives who put their own lives on the line to serve the community.