DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Whether they are glazed, powdered, or jelly-filled, donuts are serving up a history lesson across the country.
Here in Decatur, they’re also honoring a legacy of service and generosity.
On National Donut Day, and The Salvation Army of Decatur is celebrating with Giggles on Merchant Street and Big Hungry's in Mt. Zion.
Bringing out bell ringers and the iconic red kettle, the organization shares a reminder of the deep history behind this sweet tradition.
“We think back to 1938,” said Kyle Karsten, Development Director with The Salvation Army of Decatur. “The Salvation Army named the first National Donut Day. They wanted to raise money to help people during the Depression, and they wanted to celebrate the Donut Lassies.”
Those Donut Lassies were volunteers serving on the front lines during World War I, making and handing out donuts to boost the morale of soldiers in France.
Today, their tradition lives on with frosting, sprinkles, and a mission.
“They were there to take care of people, but they were also there to raise morale,” Karsten added. “So, if you think about what we do as the Salvation Army today, we're on the front lines! We're meeting needs and hopefully we're raising morale!”
Locally, Karsten added, it's a chance to highlight community spirit and support small businesses.
“We want to try to support local donut shops each year and give the community an opportunity to come out and see our bell ringers in front of our stores."
With each sweet bite, Decatur residents are helping preserve a legacy that’s just as heartwarming as it is delicious.
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