This legislation provides a reauthorization of the Emergency Food and Shelter (EFS) program for fiscal years 2000-2002. The EFS program provides emergency assistance to supplement community efforts to meet food, shelter, and other related needs of the homeless and hungry persons in all fifty states. Most of the money is allocated by local boards with representatives from religious and charitable organizations, such as the Salvation Army, United Way of America and many others.

S. 1516, was introduced on August 5, 1999 by Senators Thompson and Lieberman. Additional cosponsors include: 

The bill was voted on and reported out by the Governmental Affairs Committee on November 8, 1999 and approved by the full Senate on November 19, 1999. The bill was sent to the House on November 22, 1999 and is awaiting consideration.