Local Donut Shops Celebrate Salvation Army’s Lead in National Donut Day
Anchorage, AK – As we bite into some decadent treats this Friday, June 7, it’s important to remember the greater purpose these sweet treats once served. Beginning in June 1938, the first Donut Day was started by The Salvation Army in Chicago as a fundraiser to help those in need during The Great Depression. Thereafter, National Donut Day was created to honor the Donut Lassies who served the sweet treats to soldiers on the frontlines of World War I.
“Donut Day has long been a piece of history for The Salvation Army, celebrated far and wide,” said Major John Brackenbury, The Salvation Army Alaska Divisional Commander. “It’s delightful to see how local donut shops and patrons in Alaska continue to celebrate Donut Day each year. It also provides The Salvation Army a chance to fundraise for our local community programs and services.”
The donut, which once provided a small piece of comfort and appeased the hunger of soldiers in the trenches of World War I, has since transformed into a decadent treat enjoyed by all. The donut was and continues to be a symbol of comfort and hope that The Salvation Army provides to over 23 million lives in need each year.
This year, two Anchorage donut shops, Dino’s Donuts and Krispy Kreme, have stepped up to help The Salvation Army serve those in need. Salvation Army volunteers will be bell ringing next to the iconic Salvation Army red kettles to collect donations at both locations. Customers who donate canned food at Dino’s Donuts will also receive a free donut from the local shop in addition to helping provide to The Salvation Army’s Anchorage food pantry.
Dino’s Donuts: Open 4 am – 4 pm, 929 E. 81st Avenue, Suite 101, Anchorage, AK
Krispy Kreme: Open 6 am – 4 pm, 7710 Grass Creek Road, Anchorage, AK
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The Salvation Army, an evangelic part of the universal Christian church, supports those in need in His name without discrimination, offering spiritual encouragement and basic services to meet the needs of Alaskans in 18 communities. The Salvation Army has been caring for mind, body, spirit and soul of individuals, children and families in Alaska since 1898. In 2018, The Salvation Army served 347,439 meals, provided 71,175 bed nights, 22,740 toys and gifts and more than 20,620 clothing items helping more than 4,000 Alaskans monthly. For more information, please visit alaska.salvationarmy.org.