Hundreds of Twin Cities volunteers deliver free donuts to their personal heroes
Hundreds of Salvation Army volunteers delivered sugary goodness across the Twin Cities on Friday, June 4 in celebration of National Donut Day.
Each volunteer picked up two boxes of donuts, courtesy of Cub, at their nearest Salvation Army and delivered the pastries to people they love or appreciate. (See photos.)
A volunteer named Lori (pictured) chose to give donuts to several of her coworkers, one of whom helps animals with special needs.
“She does amazing things to help animals,” Lori said. “I decided she needed a treat today.”
The Twin Cities Salvation Army organized this event as a way for people to show love and appreciation for those who make a positive difference in the world, such as first responders, veterans, medical professionals, church members, neighbors, and others.
The volunteers’ reasons for participating in this event were heartwarming. Here are some examples:
- A young man gave donuts to his football coaches. “Every day they are helping us become leaders,” he said. “I am lucky to have a coaching staff that I trust and can count on.”
- A woman gave donuts to two of her neighbors who work as teachers. “Teachers work long hours to prepare their lessons and keep their students engaged,” the woman said. “COVID was challenging for everyone, particularly teachers.”
- A man gave donuts to the maintenance man at his office building. “He has gone above and beyond to keep our worksite running smoothly and safely,” the man said.
- A woman who lives a few blocks from where George Floyd died gave donuts to a neighbor who organized local meetings aimed at promoting peace. “Under her guidance we came up with positive ways to support our neighborhood,” the woman said. “We came together in unity and friendship.”
- A woman gave donuts to her best friend. “She is always willing to help you out, drive you somewhere, pick you up, or watch your kids if you are in a pinch,” the woman said. “She loves people inside and out, and she always sees people for who God created them to be. She shares the love of Jesus whenever possible.”
The Salvation Army started National Donut Day in 1938 to help people during the Great Depression and to commemorate the work of “Donut Girls” – female Salvation Army volunteers who served American soldiers battling on the frontlines of World War I. (Learn more about National Donut Day history.)
"Thank you to all the volunteers who participated in this year's National Donut Day, and to all of the people out there who give of themselves to make this world a better place," said Lt. Col. Dan Jennings, leader of The Salvation Army Northern Division.
Please join The Salvation Army in serving those affected by the COVID-19 crisis by giving a donation or signing up to volunteer. Your help will provide emergency assistance and hope for people and families in desperate need.