Salvation Army Offers Free Donuts
Photo by Derek Redd Trending
WHEELING -- There may not be such a thing as a free lunch, but there were free donuts in East Wheeling on Friday in honor of women's efforts in war more than 100 years ago.
The Wheeling Salvation Army teamed up with the Holey Rollers donut truck to provide the sweet confections. The truck and a Salvation Army tarp were set up in the Wheeling Salvation Army's parking lot at 140 16th St.
Capt. Mark VanMeter said he had handed out about 25 donuts in the first hour.
The free sugar snacks were available from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., and the Salvation Army expected to pass out about 40 dozen during that time, he said.
"So far, so good," VanMeter said. "People are always anxious for a free donut."
Boxes containing a dozen donuts each also were being filled, and there were plans to deliver them to local fire and police stations.
VanMeter explained "National Donut Day" was being commemorated by Salvation Army groups across the nation on Friday.
The event celebrates the "donut lassies" -- female Salvation Army volunteers who provided to soldiers on the front lines during World War I writing supplies and stamps, home-cooked meals and sometimes donuts.
Approximately 250 women with the Salvation Army assisted American Soldiers in France starting in 1917, according to information provided by the Salvation Army.
The treats were fried seven at a time in soldiers' helmets.
"They made the donuts during battles," VanMeter said.
The Salvation Army of Wheeling already has started its planning for the holiday season later this year.
Last year saw the introduction of "The Battle of the Badges" between police and law enforcement providers to see who among the groups could raise the most money while ringing bells at the red kettles.
This year, there will be a "Battle of the Mascots," VanMeter said. Schools, groups and businesses with costumed mascots will be invited to participate.