National Donut Day 2023
Every year, National Donut Day is celebrated on the first Friday in June. This tradition began in 1938, when National Donut Day was first celebrated by The Salvation Army in Chicago. The original celebration was held to support those in need during the Great Depression and commemorate the 250 Salvation Army volunteers, nicknamed “donut lassies,” who supported U.S. soldiers during World War I. These courageous women provided basic necessities to the front line soldiers and boosted their morale by handing out fresh donuts!
In celebration of National Donut Day, The Salvation Army Austin delivers donuts to more than 100 community partners in Central Texas, including first responders, essential workers, and other stakeholders we recognize for their selflessness and contributions to our community. This is made possible through the generous donation of hundreds of donuts from H-E-B, our Donut Day partner since 2020. We look forward to this tradition every summer - a unique opportunity for us to honor the longstanding legacy and brighten the days of individuals who genuinely deserve our thanks.
National Donut Day is a great representation of who we are and our mission of Doing the Most Good. We supply not only basic needs, but also happiness, comfort, and hope to strengthen families when they need it most. Here at The Salvation Army Austin Area Command, we aim to live by the principles of kindness and service demonstrated so many years ago by the “donut lassies.” When a family walks through our doors for the first time, their nerves are calmed by the smiling face of a staff member welcoming them in, ready to support them and offer a helping hand out of their crisis. We strive to empower each family in our community while they face their hardships head on, ensuring they have safe housing and are self-sufficient. Happy National Donut Day!