More doughnut news for National Doughnut Day

Today in history we’ll learn about Doughnut Dollies.

June 2, 2016; 9:31 AM • by Richard Hayes

Doughnuts have a long history, dating back to either 1847 or even 1800. The Salvation Army has long been a part of the history.

Because of the difficulties of providing freshly baked goods from huts established in abandoned buildings near the front lines, the two Salvation Army volunteers (Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance) came up with the idea of providing doughnuts. These are reported to have been an “instant hit”, and “soon many soldiers were visiting The Salvation Army huts”. Margaret Sheldon wrote of one busy day: “Today I made 22 pies, 300 doughnuts, 700 cups of coffee.” Soon, the women who did this work became known by the servicemen as “Doughnut Dollies”. Source: Wikipedia

But did you know that the delicious doughnut you eat on Friday could help out the Salvation Army?

The Salvation Army’s Donuts of Hope campaign began in 2012 and is completely unique to Richmond. Through distribution of donuts on the front-lines of World War I, The Salvation Army endeared itself to service members who craved donuts upon returning to the States. Today The Salvation Army still provides many services to veterans across the country who have found themselves battling poverty, homelessness and addiction after leaving their respective battlefields behind. The Donuts of Hope campaign helps raise funds to support our services to veterans and awareness of the struggles they face.

Duck Donuts Short Pump: On Friday, June 3, Duck Donuts Short Pump will give one free sugar donut to each patron and donate a portion of every donut sale to The Salvation Army Donuts of Hope Campaign. Duck will also be giving out a free sugar donut to patrons at their Willow Lawn store also but it’s just the Short Pump store supporting The Salvation Army.

Krispy Kreme: Will display mini-kettles near their checkout for patrons to drop their spare change. They will also give out a free doughnut to each patron.

Martin’s: All Martin’s stores will donate 25 cents of every donut sold Sunday, May 29 thru Saturday, June 4 to The Salvation Army Donuts of Hope campaign.

Image: U.S. Militaria Forum