Wayne County lies nestled amid the vast natural beauty of the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. At one time, Crum was a bustling community with a vibrant economy, bolstered by the now-struggling coal mining industry. In recent years, mining companies have been forced to lay off workers or shut down altogether, and unemployment in this region has risen dramatically. Like many small towns in this rural part of West Virginia, Crum is quite remote, affording very few job opportunities and necessitating long commutes to even a decent grocery store. Residents who choose to stay here — where their families have lived for generations — often live well below the poverty line and face unspeakable struggles.

Crum’s residents are hearty and resilient, and Crum PreK-8 School serves as a testament to their fortitude. Constructed to combine and replace our long-standing affiliated Crum Elementary School and Crum Middle School, Crum PreK-8 School serves as a beacon of hope and a safe haven, one of the few places where area children can just be kids and escape the overwhelming stress of poverty. Here, students receive support, encouragement and warm, nutritious meals. They are also empowered with a well-rounded education — the key to breaking the cycle of poverty.