WASHINGTON, D.C. [11/13/24] - Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced that Claire Cao, a senior at Jesuit High School, won the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for Oregon's First Congressional District.

Her app, ShelterBridge, helps unhoused individuals, service providers, and first responders easily access information about critical resources like shelter availability in real-time. Cao was inspired to create the app while she was volunteering at Blanchet House after speaking with a Portlander who had difficulties accessing resources for his basic needs. The app also includes a map and a chatbot to answer questions.

"The Congressional App Challenge is an opportunity for students to develop their coding skills and also address the challenges they see in their communities," said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. "It was impressive to see the talent, innovation, and civic-mindedness demonstrated by the students who participated in this year's App Challenge. I commend Claire for developing a much-needed tool to help people experiencing homelessness across our country and I look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next."

"I started ShelterBridge after volunteering at Blanchet House and seeing firsthand how so many people struggle to find essential social services," said Claire Cao. "Without a centralized system, people are left disconnected, unsure where to turn for help-even when support is available. I sincerely hope that with ShelterBridge I can make a positive and lasting difference, giving people an easier way to find shelters, food, mental health support, and so much more when they need it most."

You can view a video presentation of the app here.

Judges gave an honorable mention to Nandana Madala, a 7th grader at Tumwater Middle School. Her app, GlobalLearner, is a platform aimed at helping educators and students across the globe connect with each other for shared learning experiences in areas such as culture, academics, and language.

"There is an opportunity for schools around the world to connect and for young students to learn from one another," said Nandana Madala. "The aim of this app is to create a platform that connects schools globally, allowing students to share academics, languages, cultures, and ways of life. In today's global society, it is essential for young learners to engage with their peers in other parts of the world, embracing diversity that will enable them to grow into compassionate, global-minded citizens."

You can view a video presentation of GlobalLearner here.

A panel of expert judges from Northwest Oregon selected the winner and honorable mention for Oregon's First Congressional District. The judges evaluated submissions based on creativity, technical quality, demonstrated excellence of programming skill, and potential community contribution. The three judges were:

• Nandini Ranganathan, Executive Director of Creative and Emerging Technology Institute
• Patty Hawkins, Dean of Electronics, Mechatronics, Advanced Manufacturing at Portland Community College
• Fidel Ferrer, President and Founder of Project LEDO

Bonamici recognized Cao and Madala in a virtual reception with other participants from Oregon's First District The winning app, ShelterBridge, will be featured in the U.S. Capitol Building and on the House of Representatives website.

Bonamici is a founder and co-chair of the Congressional STEAM Caucus, which advocates for the integration of the arts and design into science, technology, engineering, and math education to encourage creative thinking and engage more students. By supporting and recognizing young programmers, Congress is acknowledging the importance of these fields. The U.S. House of Representatives organizes the nationwide Congressional App Challenge each year.

###