The Allan Vincent Smith Foundation officially opened its office yesterday in Bermuda House Lane.

The office is intended to be "a focal point in educating and assisting our community in preventing the spread of HIV,'' the foundation said in a news release.

Board members and volunteers are putting together programmes which include an AIDS helpline, a Bermuda AIDS directory, educational brochures, and walk-in information services for Bermudians and visitors alike.

Local businessman Mr. Martin Smith and his family began the foundation last year after his son, Allan Vincent Smith, died of AIDS at age 43.

Hamilton Mayor the Wor. Cecil Dismont said it was a great pleasure for him to snip the ribbon for the new office, because he knew Allan Smith well.

Fortunately, Mr. Smith's "wonderful, warm, caring and loving family'' has "first-hand knowledge of what can be done through the power of love,'' the Mayor said.

AIDS OFFICE -- The Allan Vincent Smith Foundation opened an office yesterday in Bermuda House Lane. Hamilton Mayor the Wor. Cecil Dismont (left) cut the ribbon and congratulated foundation president Mr. Martin Smith.