The Salvation Army Celebrates National Donut Day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol
Honoring the legacy of the “Donut Lassies” while sharing coffee, donuts and appreciation with state legislators and staff
The Salvation Army marked National Donut Day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol on Tuesday, June 2, sharing coffee, donuts and appreciation with legislators, staff and visitors while highlighting the history behind the annual observance.
The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services canteen, a mobile unit more commonly seen serving communities after disasters, was stationed behind the Capitol building at the intersection of Commonwealth Avenue and North Street. Staff and volunteers distributed more than 400 complimentary donuts and coffee throughout the day and connected with visitors about The Salvation Army's work across Pennsylvania.
Inside the Capitol, Salvation Army representatives staffed an informational table where visitors could learn more about National Donut Day and the organization's work across Pennsylvania. Concurrently, Salvation Army representatives visited legislative offices throughout the Capitol to thank elected officials and staff for their service to the Commonwealth, inviting them to stop by the canteen to enjoy the free donuts and connect with Salvation Army personnel.
Shieldy, The Salvation Army's mascot, also made appearances throughout the Capitol, posing for photos and helping celebrate the day.
"We're serving donuts and coffee as a simple way to connect and share more about The Salvation Army's work in communities across Pennsylvania," said Reverend Bonnie Camarda, Director of Partnerships and Government Relations for The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division. "National Donut Day is a fun tradition, but it also reminds us of the importance of showing up for people and building relationships with the communities we serve."
National Donut Day, celebrated annually on the first Friday in June, was established by The Salvation Army in 1938 to honor the organization's "Donut Lassies" who served soldiers during World War I. Nearly 250 Salvation Army volunteers traveled overseas to provide soldiers with clothing, supplies, hot meals, and donuts as a reminder that they were not forgotten. Their efforts helped popularize the donut in the United States when troops returned home.
Today, The Salvation Army carries forward that same spirit, showing up for people in their most challenging moments, whether on the front lines of a disaster or during times of hardship. Across Pennsylvania, The Salvation Army responds to disasters, provides food assistance, supports individuals and families experiencing housing instability, offers youth programs and helps neighbors navigate difficult circumstances with dignity and compassion.
Community members interested in volunteering, donating or learning more about programs and services in their area are encouraged to connect with their local Salvation Army by visiting The Salvation Army Location Finder at https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/location-finder/.