Cannoli for a Cause: Turning a South Shore Tradition into Support

At Viscariello Hospitality Group, cannoli have always meant more than dessert. They represent family, tradition, and the simple joy of gathering around the table. This April, they’ve taken on an even greater purpose—helping support a local child and his family through the Cannoli for a Cause initiative.

Across all Mamma Mia’s, Carmela's and ThreeV locations, guests can make a meaningful impact with a small, familiar choice. For every cannoli purchased, $1 is donated—and Viscariello Hospitality Group matches it with an additional $1—turning each order into direct support for a family in need.

This month, the campaign is dedicated to Amari, a local boy from whose story reflects both resilience and the daily challenges faced by families navigating autism.

Born prematurely at just 27 weeks, Amari spent nearly three months in the NICU before beginning a journey that continues to require strength, patience, and unwavering support. He has since been diagnosed with level 3 autism and is nonverbal, facing significant sensory and safety challenges. Everyday moments—like visiting a park or attending school—require careful planning due to his tendency to wander and his limited awareness of danger.

Despite these obstacles, Amari is full of life—curious, energetic, and deeply loved.

Funds raised throughout April will go toward providing Amari with a professionally trained autism service dog—something that has the potential to truly change daily life for both him and his family. A service dog can be trained to prevent wandering, respond in moments of distress, and provide constant, calming companionship. For Amari, that means greater safety, more independence, and new opportunities to engage with the world around him.

For his family, it means something just as powerful: peace of mind. The ability to navigate everyday outings with more confidence. The chance to replace constant vigilance with moments of relief, knowing Amari has an added layer of protection and support by his side. 

Amari has been matched with Lilo, a 5-month-old yellow lab, trained by Chelsea Newcomb at Freedom Labradors in Sandwich. They will continue to work together throughout the dog's lifetime of support, adding and adjusting to fit Amari's needs over time. The cost of this program is $30,000. 

Cannoli for a Cause reflects Viscariello Hospitality Group’s ongoing commitment to the communities that have supported them for generations. As a family-owned restaurant group rooted in the South Shore, their mission extends beyond serving food—it’s about showing up for neighbors, supporting local families, and creating opportunities to give back in tangible ways.

Participation is simple: dine in, take out, or add a cannoli to your order at any location. Each purchase contributes directly to Amari’s journey and reinforces a powerful idea—that even small acts can create meaningful change.

Because sometimes, something as simple as dessert can help change a life.