Teen's App Helping Veterans Wins Congressional Challenge

EGG HARBOR TWP., NJ — An app helping veterans in need find health care is the winner of New Jersey's Second Congressional District's Congressional App Challenge, Rep. Jeff Van Drew announced.

Uchenna Uduma, a student at Egg Harbor Township High School, developed an app designed to help veterans more easily access health screenings and support resources.

BetterVeteran "is an easy-to-use web app created to help veterans dealing with serious neurological challenges like PTSD and brain injuries," Van Drew said.

Uduma drew on his grandfather's experience struggling with the impacts of his military service and difficulty finding resources he needed when he made the app, according to Van Drew.

The app focuses on early awareness and getting veterans connected to help.

"It allows users to upload brain scan images to receive a risk indicator for certain types of brain bleeds, presented in clear language," Van Drew said. "It also includes a PTSD self-assessment practice tool that mirrors the format of the official PCL-5 questionnaire, helping veterans better understand their symptoms and when they may want to seek professional care. From there, the app can connect veterans with real-world support, pointing users to nearby VA facilities, medical centers, shelters, and other support services."

Van Drew said he was "incredibly proud" of the work Uduma did.

"I want to thank every student who participated in this year's Congressional App Challenge. The competition was strong, and we saw a lot of impressive ideas from students across South Jersey," Van Drew said. "Choosing a winner was not easy, and everyone who took part should be proud of the effort they put in. Congratulations to Uchenna, and I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next."