Jamaican-American teen serves the vulnerable

Alexia Stampp, an 11th-grade student at St. Francis Preparatory School (SFP) in Brooklyn, was born and raised in Jamaica along with her entire family.

Most of her relatives migrated to the U.S. when she was young, but she, her mother, and her sister made the move just a year and a half ago. “I was terrified at first about coming here, but being at school helps,” Stampp shared.

Many might be surprised to learn that in Jamaica, she was an avid athlete, participating in multiple sports, including competitive and synchronized swimming, gymnastics, and dance. Now, she is embracing new challenges and is currently trying out for the school’s lacrosse team.

Stampp lives in Springfield Gardens, Queens. One of the things she likes about the neighborhood is that it is quiet. “I have Caribbean neighbors, and I still get Caribbean food, so the culture is very present,” she added.

She sees her mom as the most significant influence on her path in life since she pushed her in a positive direction as a child. “My mom was very instrumental in supporting me with extracurricular activities, and she pushed me to stay involved with school,” she stated.

Stampp is involved in the school’s Campus Ministry, particularly the Soup Kitchen and Midnight Run, which she started doing last year.
The Soup Kitchen is at Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Jamaica, Queens. As part of this, Stampp and several other students assist with preparing and serving meals to anyone there in need.

She, other student volunteers, and faculty chaperones work together for the Midnight Runs to sort clothes, make sandwiches, and prepare toiletry kits. At midnight, they travel by school bus into Manhattan to distribute the donations to homeless people.

“Doing this work has opened my eyes a lot, and it’s special to bring them some comfort,” Stampp explained.

She adds that the reaction from those she serves has been very positive. “The people are very appreciative and grateful,” she continued. Stampp says she plans to continue doing this work in the future.

Something that makes her heart happy is music, specifically reggae and gospel. What’s next for Stampp is preparing for college.
She may start her college applications this summer. “Most of the next school year is going to be dedicated to that and keeping up my grades,” she stated.