Community Dining Room's 'Kindness Campaign' Underway In Memory Of Volunteer Anthony Esposito

BRANFORD, CT — Nearly a year after beating his 12-year-old son to death with a baseball bat, Anthony Andrew Esposito Jr., 53, pleaded guilty in April to murder and the attempted murder of his daughter, court records show. Not yet sentenced, he's next due in court July 6.

Following the horrific events of May 1, 2025 on Hemlock Road, a shocked community grieved the death of Anthony P. Esposito, a sixth-grade student at Walsh Intermediate School.

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Now, a year later, the Community Dining Room has launched the 'Kindness Campaign in Memory of Anthony,' a month-long giving campaign "dedicated to honoring Anthony’s spirit of generosity, compassion, and community connection."

Contribute now through June 11 here.

Anthony volunteered for CDR’s Summer Meal Program

"As we approach the one-year anniversary of the loss of Anthony in our community, we reflect on the impact he had on those around him and the joy he brought to CDR’s Summer Meal Program each year," the Community Dining Room posted on Facebook.

"Anthony loved being part of the friendships, shared meals, and welcoming environment that brought people together through kindness and care," the CDR wrote. "This campaign was created to ensure that his legacy continues to live on through service, compassion, and community support."

People who wish to support the campaign and honor the boy's memory are "invited to give in Anthony’s memory while helping ensure that our neighbors have access to meals, connection, and support during the summer months."

"Every donation made through this campaign will directly support CDR’s 9-week Summer Meal Program, helping provide nourishing meals and enrichment activities for children, families, and individuals who rely on our services throughout the summer," the Community Dining Room posted.

At both Branford and East Haven meal sites, there will be interactive Kindness Boards where participants, volunteers, and community members can share what kindness means to them.

"These reflections will serve as a living tribute to Anthony and a reminder of the impact compassion can have within a community," the CDR wrote.

"This campaign is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: small acts of kindness can create lasting impact," the community meal center wrote. "Through generosity, shared reflection, and community support, we can continue Anthony’s legacy by ensuring others experience the same sense of belonging, dignity, and care that meant so much to him."

Contribute now through June 11 here.