National Doughnut Day, also known as National Donut Day, is observed in the United States on every first Friday of June. This informal holiday was established by the Salvation Army in 1938 to honor the volunteers who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. During the war, the Salvation Army sent volunteers to France, where they created “huts” that provided baked goods, stamps, writing supplies, and clothes-mending services. The idea of serving doughnuts was introduced by two volunteers, Helen Purviance and Margaret Sheldon, who became known as “Doughnut Dollies.” On this day, many doughnut shops offer a free doughnut to customers, often as a means to encourage donations for the Salvation Army or other charities. In some cities, the holiday continues to serve as a fundraiser for the organization.