National Doughnut Day is celebrated on June 7 in the U.S. after the Salvation Army established this sweet holiday in 1938 to raise funds during the Great Depression and honor the “lassies”.

They called the female volunteers, who supported the soldiers on the front lines during World War I, serving them delicious meals, and of course, doughnuts. Approximately 250 “lassies” provided assistance to American soldiers in France in 1917.

In 2013, many national chains and smaller shops are offering free doughnuts to celebrate the day.

Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme will be giving away a free doughnut of any variety to every customer at participating locations, while supplies last. No purchase necessary.

Dunkin’ Donuts

At Dunkin’ Donuts, customers will receive a free doughnut with any beverage purchase. The chain’s much-buzzed about Glazed Donut Breakfast Sandwich also makes its debut on the permanent menu at Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants today. The 360-calorie sandwich features bacon and a pepper fried egg on a glazed yeast ring donut.

National Doughnut Day is celebrated on June 7 in the U.S. after the Salvation Army established this sweet holiday in 1938 to raise funds during the Great Depression

Tim Hortons

The chain is offering a free doughnut with any purchase on Friday, but be sure to print this Facebook coupon and bring it with you to redeem the deal.

LaMar’s Donuts

LaMar’s is giving away one free doughnut per person with no purchase necessary. Plus, a portion of this week’s sales are being donated to The Salvation Army to the Oklahoma tornado relief effort. (Eat well and do good!)

Entenmann’s

For the third year in a row, Entenmann’s will donate $1 to the Salvation Army for every new “Like” on the company’s Facebook page through June 15, up to $30,000. You can also enter for a chance to win free Entenmann’s doughnuts for a year.

Be sure to check your local and regional doughnut shops for more special promotions and fried freebies.  And don’t forget to be social. Pick up a box of doughnuts for co-workers and friends and post about it with the hashtag, #ndd13 and #donut.

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