Frequently Asked

Questions

Where are we in the Building Unity process?

The Unity Management Committee has made significant progress preparing for Phase 1 construction:

Archaeological Study: Completed successfully—an answer to prayer for our eight-acre property.
Design & Site Plans: Finalized and ready for construction.
Traffic Study: Completed to ensure safety and accessibility.
Building Permit: Submitted before the 2025 Ontario Building Code (OBC) changes. Haldimand County has granted a grace period allowing us to proceed under the old code, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Delaying construction could require new designs and permits under the updated OBC, significantly increasing project costs.

Does enrollment justify expanding the Unity Campus?

Yes. Enrollment growth clearly supports expansion.

2025 enrollment is already higher than expected, and new families continue to tour both campuses.
The Unity Campus is nearing capacity and will require expansion for the 2026–2027 school year.
Historically, CCS faced space limitations at West 5th, leading to the purchase of the Unity Campus in 2019 to serve more families.

We are once again at a point where current facilities alone cannot meet demand.

Why is $5 million needed by December 2025?

The Building Unity Campaign is seeking $5 million in donations and pledges by December 2025 to confidently begin construction in June 2026.

Reaching this goal allows us to:

Move forward under the current Ontario Building Code
Avoid significant cost increases
Maintain momentum and stewardship of resources

Delays may result in higher construction, permitting, and inflation-related costs.

What happens if the $5 million goal is not reached?

If the goal is not met by December 2025, the project may need to be delayed. This could result in:

Increased construction costs due to inflation
Additional expenses for temporary classroom solutions
New design and permit requirements under the updated OBC

What happens to my donation if the project does not proceed?

We are moving forward in faith, trusting God to provide. In accordance with CCS’s Donations Policy, if a program or initiative cannot be completed or is overfunded, the Board may redirect funds to another program or project where the need is greatest.

Can portables be used instead of building?

Portables are being explored as a temporary solution to address near-term enrollment growth. However, they do not replace the need for a permanent building. Our goal remains to proceed with Phase 1 using the current approved plans to avoid major cost increases.

Is the two-campus/one society model the most cost effective?

Operating two campuses does create additional short-term costs. However, in the long term, the Unity Campus supports enrollment growth, program stability, and financial sustainability. This reflects our commitment to Two Campuses, One Society, stewarding resources wisely for future generations.

How large will the new building be?

The long-term vision is a facility similar in size to the West 5th Campus, approximately 25,000–35,000 square feet—constructed in phases over several years. Phase 1 focuses on addressing immediate enrollment needs while allowing for future growth.

What will be the enrollment capacity?

Phase 1 capacity: Approximately 180 students
Full build-out: JK–Grade 8 elementary program with capacity for about 250 students
Combined capacity: Approximately 700 students across both campuses, aligned with Greater Hamilton Area growth projections

When will the new building be ready?

Construction timing depends on cash inflows from the campaign. The goal is to begin construction in 2026, with occupancy by 2027 or sooner. The existing Unity building will continue to serve students in the interim.

Will $5 million cover the entire project cost?

No. The $5 million will fund a significant portion of Phase 1. The remaining balance will be financed through long-term mortgage financing, recognizing that the building will serve multiple generations.

Is it realistic to raise $5 million?

Yes. This goal is achievable when we share responsibility together.

If every CCS family were willing to take responsibility for helping raise approximately $21,000, both through their own giving and by inviting support from friends, extended family, churches, and community contacts, the full $5 million would be reached.

This campaign is not about equal gifts, but equal commitment, each family doing what they are able, together trusting God to provide.

Does my donation really matter?

Yes. Every gift matters. Whether large or small, each contribution is a meaningful investment in Christian education and Kingdom impact that will shape students and families for generations to come.

I’m unable to give financially. How can I help?

There are many meaningful ways to partner in the Building Unity Campaign:

Pray

Ask God to provide.
Ask God to show you your role in the campaign.
Pray about who you might invite to partner with us.

Get involved

Volunteer as a canvasser.

Spread the word

Share the vision with friends, family, and your broader network.

Together, through prayer, generosity, and shared commitment, we trust God to build something that will bless generations to come.