On September 18, 2026, Riverview Elementary School in the Verdun borough of Montreal opened a brand‑new artificial‑turf soccer field. The $160,000 project was funded through a joint donation from the Patrice Bernier Foundation, GOAL Initiatives Foundation and GTR Turf, and it will serve the students of the Lester B. Pearson School Board.
The new surface replaces the school's previous playing area with a durable, low‑maintenance turf that can endure heavy use and Montreal’s variable weather. Designed for soccer and a range of other field games, the installation offers a consistent playing surface that remains usable throughout the school year, reducing downtime caused by rain or wear.
The collaboration among the three donor organisations and the school board demonstrates a coordinated effort to improve recreational facilities for children. By creating a dedicated space for organized sport and informal play, the project seeks to promote regular physical activity and strengthen community ties among students and staff.
Representatives from Riverview Elementary and the Lester B. Pearson School Board attended the inauguration ceremony, acknowledging the contributions of the Patrice Bernier Foundation, GOAL Initiatives Foundation and GTR Turf. The field is now open for daily school use, scheduled practices, and extracurricular sports programs.
The investment aligns with broader objectives of enhancing student well‑being and encouraging active lifestyles. With the turf field now operational, Riverview Elementary adds a modern athletic resource to its campus, expanding opportunities for students to engage in soccer, tag games, and other outdoor activities in a safe and reliable environment.