RAVENNA − More older adults than ever are requesting gifts through the Be A Santa to a Senior program, which is seeking presents this year for 475 older adults in Portage County.

Home Instead Senior Care, which has been setting up trees for more than 20 years that convey the Christmas wishes of older adults, says it is working with 200 more people than in 2024. Many of its clients came from Mobile Meals of Portage County, which saw cuts this year and is expecting more in 2026.

"Baby boomers are our biggest population," she said.

Trees can be found at 18 locations throughout Portage County, each decorated with paper "bulbs" that have the Christmas wishes of a senior citizen in the area. As always, the gift requests are simple and practical, said Joan Penix, executive director of Home Ins

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