ESTHER L. BUSH
Safe housing and fair wages help families and pets thrive
This month’s New Pittsburgh Courier health page focuses on the role of support animals and pets in healthy living. The feature highlights how income and housing impact the way people care for their animal companions. Esther L. Bush, Interim President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, reminds readers the Urban League is here to help.
Q: Esther, how does the Urban League view the importance of safe housing and a fair income for Black families — including their animal companions?
Esther: Both housing and income are basic needs and human rights that form the foundation for healthy living — and that extends to the ability to care for beloved pets and support animals. In many Black households, systemic barriers such as income inequality and housing discrimination make it more difficult to maintain the stability needed to provide for animal companions. Pets aren’t just “nice to have.” For many people, especially those facing health challenges, they’re vital sources of comfort, stress relief, and emotional support.
Q: So true! What resources does the Urban League offer to help people provide for their pets?
Esther: We continue to advocate for housing equity and offer programs like rental assistance, workforce development initiatives, and even hunger initiatives. By helping families secure safe, affordable housing and pathways to sustainable employment, we also make it possible for them to provide for their pets — without sacrificing other essentials. Stability doesn’t just benefit the family; it also benefits the animals they love.
Q: This month’s feature also highlights the difficulty some pet owners face during a crisis, such as a hospital stay. How can family members and neighbors help? What programs are in place to support strong community outreach?
Esther: We know pets can present a difficult challenge when someone needs medical care. Too often, people delay or refuse necessary procedures because they worry about what will happen to their pets. No one should have to choose between their health and their animal companion. Through our community-building programs, senior outreach, and partnerships with local service organizations, we foster networks of care where neighbors look out for one another. That includes making sure a loved one’s pet is walked, fed, or temporarily housed, for example. By strengthening community trust and connection, we ensure that people can focus on healing.
Our mission has always been about developing equity and opportunity. However at its heart, it’s also about building strong, caring neighborhoods. Pets are included in that and supporting the people who love them is part of the work we do every day.
