In October 1982, The U.S. Conference of Mayors and The U.S. Conference of City Human Services Officials brought the shortage of emergency services – food, shelter, medical care, income assistance, and energy assistance – to national attention through a 55-city survey. This ground-breaking survey showed that the demand for emergency services had increased in cities across the nation and that on average only 43 percent of that demand was being met. Since that time the Conference has produced numerous reports on hunger, homelessness and poverty in cities. These reports have documented the causes and magnitude of these issues, how cities were responding to them, and what national responses were needed.

This year’s survey includes data from 25 cities whose mayors are members of The U.S. Conference of Mayor’s Task Force on Hunger and Homelessness. Respondents were asked to provide information on emergency food assistance and homeless services provided between October 1, 2007 and September 30, 2008 (The United States Conference of Mayors).