Buddy Valastro Partners With The Salvation Army To Spread Joy Nationwide for National Donut Day USA - English USA - español

Carlo's Bakery To Provide Donuts for Veterans at Salvation Army Celebrations Across the Country

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- This Friday, June 5, The Salvation Army invites the nation to honor the heart and resilience behind National Donut Day. Established in 1938, the holiday pays tribute to the "Donut Lassies," Salvation Army volunteers who brought comfort, critical supplies, and freshly fried donuts to soldiers serving on the front lines of World War I. Their legacy continues as a reminder that small acts of kindness can bring immense joy.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/the-salvation-army/9393351-en-salvation-army-buddy-valastro-national-donut-day

Celebrity chef and baker Buddy Valastro — star of the former hit series "Cake Boss" and owner of Carlo's Bakery — is teaming up with The Salvation Army to celebrate the holiday's history and honor the heroes of today. Through this partnership, Valastro will join the organization in expressing gratitude to those who served the nation by distributing donuts to veterans in New York City.

"National Donut Day is all about bringing people together and spreading a little joy, and that's something I've always believed baking can do," said Valastro. "I'm really proud to continue my partnership with The Salvation Army for this celebration, especially because of the incredible work they do supporting veterans and military families. Getting to share donuts and take a moment to honor the sacrifices veterans have made, including my own brother-in-law, Joe Faugno, means a lot to me."

Additionally, Valastro will support several Salvation Army initiatives nationwide. Carlo's Bakery will provide donuts to veterans, with content creators joining the celebrations. Featured events include:

Simultaneously, The Salvation Army will host its traditional community initiatives across the country to recognize veterans' bravery and commitment with select events, including:

National Donut Day traces its origins back to World War I. In 1917, a group of female Salvation Army officers and volunteers traveled to France to set up field bases near the front lines to support American troops. Working in makeshift huts, these women, known as the Donut Lassies, offered soldiers emotional and spiritual care, essential supplies, and freshly fried donuts. These simple treats quickly became a powerful symbol of comfort and joy.

When soldiers returned home, the Donut Lassies were widely credited with helping popularize the donut across the United States. In 1938, The Salvation Army in Chicago established National Donut Day to honor the Donut Lassies' service and to raise funds for those struggling during the Great Depression.