Salvation Army to Thank Veterans with a Sweet Treat on National Donut Day – Friday, June 1
**World War I & II Lassies relive history by passing out free donuts to veterans**
SAN DIEGO, CA. (May 29, 2018) – Looking for something sweet to do this Friday? Mark your calendars for the sweetest day of the year and come celebrate National Donut Day with the Salvation Army!
The Salvation Army in San Diego will be celebrating National Donut Day on Friday, June 1 by giving FREE donuts to veterans at two Veterans Village of San Diego locations, and then giving FREE donuts to the public at Belmont Park. Those in attendance will receive a free donut and get a chance to relive history and meet Salvation Army “Donut Lassies” in historical costumes.
- 6-7:30am
Veterans Village of San Diego
4141 Pacific Highway, San Diego
- 8-9:30am
Veterans Village of San Diego Homeless Shelter
2801 ½ Sports Arena Blvd., San Diego
- 12-1pm
Belmont Park
3146 Mission Blvd., San Diego
The lassies, dressed in World War 1 khakis, will start passing out donuts to the public at 12 p.m. in the north lot of Belmont Park on Ventura Place, located directly in front of the Giant Dipper next to the arcade by The Beach House and the life guard station. Look for the Salvation Army Emergency Services Vehicle. Krispy Kreme Doughnuts has generously donated 50 dozen donuts that will be handed out until they are gone.
“VVSD is proud to support America’s veterans by providing life-changing programs and services helping them to reintegrate into civilian life. Participating in Donut Day with the Salvation Army makes this an extra special sweet day for all,” says Lisa Record, VVSD Development Director.
Started by The Salvation Army on the first Friday in June in 1938, National Donut Day was created to honor the Donut Lassies who served the sweet treats to soldiers on the frontlines of World War I and II. The Salvation Army’s identity with the donut has stuck ever since and National Donut Day gives them a chance to say a humble, thank you for the support they get from the community each year.
“This year, we are paying homage to our involvement in WWI and WWII by having our Donut Lassies provide donuts to veterans,” says Major George Baker, Salvation Army Divisional Leader. “The Salvation Army has always supported our veterans, and we’re excited to continue this tradition with National Donut Day.”
Since serving the soldiers during the wars, The Salvation Army, nationally and here in San Diego, has provided millions of free snacks and hot coffee to firemen, rescue workers, disaster victims and anyone in need. They continue to provide assistance in each local disaster we have to first responders.
The 1,100 donuts passed out for National Donut Day are generously provided by Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and Entenmann’s.
Editor’s Note - Interview Opportunities/Visuals: WWI lassies (dressed in vintage costumes), local donut eaters and supporters of the Salvation Army as well as Salvation Army employee and Veteran Paul Armstrong will be on hand distributing from a Salvation Army emergency vehicle used in local disasters. Veterans and a spokesperson at the Veterans Village of San Diego will be available to comment as well. Great visuals!
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