Donut Day Isn’t Really About Donuts

Every day should be doughnut day. Not just because donuts are so yummy delicious, but because of what Donut Day is all about. It happens on Friday, and the Salvation Army in Grand Junction  invites all Veterans, their families, and friends to enjoy a donut and coffee at the entrance of the Grand Junction VA Hospital on Friday, June 7th from 9 am to Noon for National Donut Day.

The Salvation Army in Chicago celebrated the first National Donut Day in 1938 to help raise much-needed funds during the Great Depression. In doing so, the Army honored Salvation Army “donut lassies” who fed the tasty treat to American soldiers during World War I. Among those recognized were Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance, who came up with the idea of frying donuts in soldiers’ helmets near the front lines. Donuts became synonymous with The Salvation Army, as well as the American soldiers who returned home with the nickname, “doughboys.”

The first Friday in June has marked the historical date in American food history ever since. Through raised awareness and continued support of The Salvation Army on National Donut Day and year round, the Army provides critical services to 30 million Americans across the country and in need each year.

Take a moment on Friday and stop by the V.A on Friday to show your support of veterans, and enjoy a complimentary donut and coffee.