Donut Day 2025
Each June, National Donut Day offers more than just a chance to indulge in a sweet treat — it’s a reminder of a legacy that began over a century ago. In 1917, during the height of World War I, The Salvation Army sent approximately 250 brave volunteers to the front lines in France to offer spiritual support and practical assistance to American soldiers. Among them were two innovative women, Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance, who famously began frying donuts in makeshift huts to lift the spirits of homesick troops.
Their simple but powerful gesture became legendary. These women, later known as the “Donut Lassies,” didn’t just serve pastries — they served comfort, compassion, and a taste of home. The donuts became so beloved that, when the soldiers returned to the U.S., they brought their love for the fried treat with them, helping to popularize it nationwide.
When World War II arrived, The Salvation Army was once again there, delivering warm donuts to troops — now with the help of the automatic donut machine. But the heart behind the mission remained the same: to bring joy, encouragement, and relief wherever needed.
In 1938, the first National Donut Day was celebrated in Chicago by The Salvation Army to both honor the Donut Lassies and raise funds to help those affected by the Great Depression. That tradition continues today, serving as a heartfelt tribute to history — and a reminder of how even small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact.