The Salvation Army of Knoxville will mark National Donut Day this Friday, June 5, by spending time with local veterans at the Ben Atchley State Veterans Home, continuing a tradition that began more than a century ago.
Sgt. Jeff Clark and youth members from The Salvation Army Knoxville Corps will visit residents of the veterans’ home to share donuts, conversation, and their appreciation for the sacrifices these men and women have made. The visit honors the legacy of the original “Donut Lassies”—Salvation Army volunteers who served donuts, coffee, and encouragement to American soldiers on the front lines during World War I.
National Donut Day traces its roots to World War I, when Salvation Army volunteers known as the “Donut Lassies” served American troops in France. Working with limited supplies and makeshift equipment, they famously fried donuts in soldiers’ helmets while also providing coffee, encouragement, and a welcome reminder of home. In 1938, The Salvation Army established National Donut Day to recognize their service and the lasting difference they made in the lives of countless soldiers. Today, the observance continues as a reminder of the importance of compassion, service, and caring for others.
“For The Salvation Army, National Donut Day has always been about more than donuts,” said Sgt. Jeff Clark of The Salvation Army Knoxville Corps. “The Donut Lassies showed Christ’s love through simple acts of kindness and compassion during a difficult time in our nation’s history.”
The event is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, including Dunkin’ and Beaver Dough-Jo of Karns, which donated donuts for the veterans.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate National Donut Day than by spending time with the men and women whose service helped protect the freedoms we enjoy today,” Clark said. “It’s a privilege to hear their stories, spend time with them, and simply say thank you.”
The Salvation Army of Knoxville has been serving this community for more than 125 years. We provide shelter, food assistance, case management, youth programs, disaster relief, and year-round support for individuals and families facing hardship. All programs are funded entirely by local donations, and all donations stay local. For more information, visit SalvationArmyKnoxville.org.
