To assess the status of hunger and homelessness in U.S. cities during 2002, 25 major cities completed surveys regarding demand for emergency food assistance and emergency shelter and capacity of local agencies to meet the demand; causes of hunger and homelessness and demographics of populations experiencing these problems; exemplary programs or efforts to respond to hunger and homelessness; availability of affordable housing for low income people; the outlook for the future; and the impact of the economy on hunger and homelessness. During 2002, requests for emergency food assistance increased by about 19 percent, with all cities registering increases. Requests for food assistance by families with children and by elderly persons increased an average of 17 percent and 19 percent, respectively. Requests for emergency shelter increased by approximately 19 percent, with most cities registering an increase. About 30 percent of requests for emergency shelter by homeless people went unmet. Lack of affordable housing was the main reason for homelessness. Requests for assisted housing by low income families and individuals increased in 88 percent of the cities. Applicants waited an average of 19 months for public housing. Respondents believed that hunger and housing needs would increase during 2003. Four appendices present charts, the survey, and survey cities and mayors. (SM)