Salvation Army Celebrates Annual National Doughnut Day
Each year, on the first Friday of June, The Salvation Army in Canada distributes sweet treats with a deeper meaning. While National Doughnut Day might seem like an excuse to indulge, its origins go back to the First World War, when The Salvation Army served doughnuts to soldiers on the front lines as a symbol of comfort and care.
Across the country, many Salvation Army locations commemorate the day by distributing doughnuts in their communities. One of the consistent participants is The Salvation Army in Saint John, N.B.
“I think it’s important to honour the history of The Salvation Army’s efforts to provide hope to people,” says Lieutenant Jason Brinson, leader at The Salvation Army in Saint John.
“It’s important to honour the history of The Salvation Army’s efforts to provide hope to people.”
This year, his team will be handing out doughnuts from their emergency disaster services (EDS) truck at a local grocery store. While it’s common on Doughnut Day to deliver treats to first responders, the Saint John team is taking a more inclusive approach.
“We chose to broaden our perspective and get the community involved where we can, to talk to people, have that conversation right at the truck and give them doughnuts,” Lieutenant Brinson adds.
Further west, at The Salvation Army’s Community Venture in Winnipeg, volunteers and participants from their programs will be handing out doughnuts at different Salvation Army thrift store locations across the city.
“Our mission for that day is to go out into the community and serve free doughnuts and show people that we are present,” says Rowena Austria, director of the day program at Community Venture.
“Our mission for that day is to go out into the community and serve free doughnuts and show people that we are present.”
Salisbury House, a local restaurant chain, donated more than 400 doughnuts to support the celebration. Their contribution shows the awareness of The Salvation Army’s presence and impact on the community in Winnipeg.
“Our name is starting to come across people and they are beginning to understand what we are trying to do. We’re always there to help,” Rowena adds.
The distribution of doughnuts also creates an opportunity to introduce new people to the programs and services The Salvation Army provides.
This year, National Doughnut Day will be celebrated on Friday, June 6.
By Juan Romero
