The Salvation Army Honors Veterans on National Donut Day Reflecting on Holiday’s Mission
Region’s largest social service provider partners with Dallas Cowboys to honor why Donut Day was created — to commemorate brave volunteers and those who serve our country.
NORTH TEXAS (Friday, June 6, 2025) — In recognition of National Donut Day on Friday, June 6, which has roots dating back to World War I, The Salvation Army of North Texas is continuing its annual tradition by honoring veterans and first responders across the region.
As a nod to the holiday’s origin, The Salvation Army of North Texas has teamed up with the Dallas Cowboys to distribute donuts to veterans at its Carr P. Collins Social Services Center in Dallas. In Fort Worth, The Salvation Army will be handing out donuts and coffee to veterans and first responders at the Fort Worth VA Clinic.
As the largest Salvation Army multi-use residential facility in North Texas, The Salvation Army’s Carr P. Collins Social Service Center is one of two facilities in the region that provides extensive programming and support for homeless and disabled veterans. Alongside The Salvation Army’s J.E. & L.E. Mabee Social Service Center in Fort Worth, The Salvation Army is the largest shelter provider for veterans in North Texas, providing temporary housing, assistance securing stable housing, and comprehensive support services such as gathering required identification and documentation to facilitate access to services and housing opportunities.
The Salvation Army has a deep, rich history in serving those who served us — and that is, in part, why National Donut Day was founded.
National Donut Day’s History
In 1917, The Salvation Army’s brave volunteers traveled to France during World War I to bring critical supplies and provide meaningful spiritual and emotional support to the American soldiers who were risking their lives overseas. Up to 9,000 donuts were served to the troops daily. These volunteers from The Salvation Army were nicknamed “Donut Lassies” for the taste of home they baked and delivered directly to the front lines, offering a moment of comfort to homesick soldiers.
They are often credited with popularizing the donut in the United States when the soldiers, nicknamed “Doughboys,” returned home from war.
In 1938, The Salvation Army established the first National Donut Day in Chicago as a fundraiser to help those in need during the Great Depression and to commemorate the soldiers who fought bravely and the work of the Donut Lassies, who brought much-needed faith in a time of darkness.
How The Salvation Army Serves Veterans
Today, The Salvation Army remains dedicated to supporting veterans who are working to overcome complex challenges that can hinder their wellbeing and successful reintegration into society.
The Salvation Army serves veterans facing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, social isolation, and financial instability. The Salvation Army’s comprehensive and structured case management team addresses each veteran's specific needs as part of a compassionate, holistic approach designed to overcome the distinct barriers faced by veterans and support their path to independence and improved quality of life.
The services The Salvation Army provides includes:
Transitional housing for veterans experiencing homelessness, providing a stable environment as they work toward self-sufficiency
Financial literacy education classes and life skills groups to equip veterans with the tools necessary for long-term stability, such as finding employment and housing
Collaboration with housing partners, including the Dallas VA, Dallas Housing Authority, and many others to identify and secure appropriate housing placements
Advocacy for veterans experiencing homelessness by supporting housing initiatives and raising awareness of factors this population faces
Compassion-focused care rooted in dignity and respect to empower veterans on their journey toward a renewed sense of purpose
"National Donut Day is one of our favorite days of the year, for reasons beyond just enjoying a deal on a tasty treat," said Major Paul McFarland, area commander of The Salvation Army of North Texas. “Each year, we remember the history behind the holiday and recognize the brave men and women in North Texas who fought for our freedom. Though we provide support to veterans year-round, we are thankful for the opportunity to show our gratitude for their sacrifices alongside members of the community on this special day. "
To meet an increased need for North Texas’ most vulnerable individuals and families — including our veterans, who are facing rising costs and increased hardships — The Salvation Army has continuously provided critical services across the region.
For more information about National Donut Day or to download the Donut Lassies’ original donut recipe, visit SalvationArmyNTX.org/north-texas/donut-day.