Residents invited to get taste of goodwill, and soup BY JENNIFER AMATO Staff Writer EDISON- Alocal agency is hosting "A Taste of Kindness" fundraiser to raise funds for victims of domestic violence. Women Aware, in New Brunswick, is Middlesex County's only agency for domestic violence victims and their children. They provide shelter to support women and children and provide outreach services for legal advocacy and individual counseling, support groups, education and training programs, and Peace: a Learned Solution (PALS) art and play therapy. They will hold their 16th annual soup kitchen fundraiser at the Pines Manor in Edison onApril 14. Gourmet soups will be served from various restaurants, as well as bread, cheese and dessert. There will be door prizes and raffles. So far, the participating restaurants include Covino's, Arthur's Steakhouse, Bensi, Maples Premium Deli and Blitzburgers in North Brunswick; the Harvest Moon Brewery, the Round Grill, the Verdigre Dining Room in New Brunswick; Lock, Stock & Deli in Milltown; the Gusto Grill in East Brunswick; the Bulldog Deli in Metuchen; and Joe's Italian Restaurant in Franklin Park. Additional restaurants are expected to be added before the event date. Domestic violence affects nearly one in two women nationwide.More than 73,000 cases were reported in New Jersey alone in 2006. Of the offenses reported that year, 3,800 children were involved and over 20,000 children were present. Since 2000, Women Aware has helped 82 children per year, on average, most of whom were age 10 and younger. The fundraiser will, therefore, specifically support ELVES: Empower the Littlest Victims to Emerge Strong.Afull-time children's counselor provides therapy through recreation, art therapy and group support to help identify fears and introduce alternatives to violent behavior. "We believe that children exposed to domestic violence have specific, identifiable needs within domestic violence programs. These needs are best met through programs that embrace a holistic approach, stressing flexibility and creativity," said Eve Hook, the fundraiser coordinator, and Phyllis Adams, the executive director. "ATaste of Kindness" will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pines Manor, 2085 Route 27. Tickets are $40 in advance or $45 at the door. All donations are tax deductible. Make checks payable to Women Aware, 250 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick, NJ 08901. The RSVP date is April 7. For more information, call (732) 249-4900 or visit http://www.WomenAware. net.