Grand Rapids Business Journal The National Donut Day tradition has roots dating back to World War I when nearly 250 Salvation Army volunteers, known as “Donut Lassies,” traveled overseas to provide emotional and spiritual support, as well as fried confections, supplies and other services to troops on the frontlines. Courtesy Salvation Army The Salvation Army of Kent County will deliver 35 dozen doughnuts Friday to thank first responders for their work in the community. June 4 is The Salvation Army’s annual Donut Day. To commemorate the occasion, The Salvation Army of Kent County will spend the morning personally delivering over 35 dozen doughnuts to the Grand Rapids and Wyoming police departments, Kent County Sheriff’s Office, Grand Rapids fire departments, and AMR and Life EMS ambulance services as a small way to thank them for their work in the community.