(Semi)Free Donuts for National Donut Day Today

Residents today can indulge their sweet tooth as Friday marks National Donut Day across the country.

National Donut Day was dreamed up during World War I when Salvation Army workers delivered coffee and donuts to soldiers, according to the Salvation Army website. The first official National Donut Day was celebrated during the Great Depression, as a way to fundraise for the organization.

Donuts were first made in Northern Europe during the Middle Ages and didn't come to the U.S. until the 1800s, according to Yahoo. The first American donuts had no holes! In fact, it would take about a half century for American donuts with holes to emerge. 

While not entirely free in Mineola, is giving away the treats with the purchase of a beverage at participating locations.