BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — The aroma of biscuits, gravy and fried apples will once again fill the halls of Inez Elementary School this Saturday as the Kiwanis Club of Martin County hosts its annual Hillbilly Breakfast, a homegrown tradition rooted in service, community and support for local students.

Set for 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., the all-you-can-eat breakfast has become a staple on the county calendar. It draws hundreds each year for what Kiwanis Club president Melissa Phelps describes as “a longtime Martin County Kiwanis tradition that brings the community together over a hearty, home-style meal.”

“It started as a simple fundraiser and has grown into a beloved annual event that people look forward to each year,” Phelps said. “We are unsure of the exact year it began, but it was started to fund scholarships for local high school students to assist with college expenses.”

That mission remains at the heart of the event.

“The goal is to raise funds to support Kiwanis programs, specifically our high school scholarship program, while also bringing the community together in a fun, welcoming environment,” Phelps said.

Proceeds go directly back into the community. Scholarships for graduating seniors remain the top priority, with any additional funds helping meet other youth-related needs across Martin County.

“It provides funding for important youth-focused programs and creates a space for neighbors, families and friends to connect and support a great cause,” she said.

The menu reflects the event’s name and its Appalachian roots.

Guests can expect a full country spread: biscuits, sausage, eggs, gravy, fried potatoes, fried apples and the crowd favorite — chocolate gravy.

“It’s all about simple, hearty, down-home cooking and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that reflects our Appalachian roots,” Phelps said.

Some of those recipes carry history of their own.

“Many of the recipes and cooking styles have been passed down over the years, especially Eugene ‘Sweetie’ Moore’s famous chocolate gravy,” she said.

The breakfast offers dining options.

“All you can eat breakfast, including drinks, is just $7,” Phelps said. “Guests can enjoy the meal on-site or take it to go.”

Behind the scenes, the effort is entirely community-driven. Kiwanis members handle the cooking and serving, while local supporters ensure the event remains possible year after year.

“Kiwanis members come together to prepare and serve the meal,” Phelps said. “Warfield Market, Brad Pack and Judy Ousley continue the tradition that Derle Walker began and donate all the food for the event.”

She added that local businesses, candidates and elected officials also play a role by purchasing advertising on placemats used during the breakfast — another way the event sustains itself while supporting its mission.

Over time, the Hillbilly Breakfast has grown both in attendance and significance.

“We typically serve several hundred people throughout the morning, and attendance continues to grow each year,” Phelps said.

The location has shifted through the years, from the Senior Citizens Center to the Martin County Extension Office, before settling at Inez Elementary following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“After COVID, we began having the event at Inez Elementary School, where it is being hosted this year as well,” she said.

For many, the breakfast is a tradition passed from generation to generation.

“The delicious food, friendly faces, and the chance to support a great cause,” Phelps said, when asked what draws people back each year.

For Phelps, the meaning runs deeper.

“It’s a chance to give back, connect with the community, and be part of something that truly makes a difference for local kids,” she said. “The people, the purpose and the tradition — it’s something special that brings everyone together.”

She noted that the event also offers a rare opportunity for Kiwanis members themselves.

“It’s the one event that Kiwanis does where we all get to be together and work together at the same time,” Phelps said. “It’s truly a time for us Kiwanis members to enjoy each other as well.”

For those who have never attended, her message is simple:

“Come hungry and bring a friend. You’ll get a great meal and support a great cause at the same time.”

And for the community that has sustained it for years, she offered thanks.

“Every plate served helps support local children,” Phelps said. “We appreciate the community’s continued support and can’t wait to see everyone there.”