Jaquin Thomas was a 15-year-old who would have been starting 9th grade at Ville Platte High School this fall. He once described wanting to serve his country in the Navy someday, or maybe do something with his hands like being a carpenter. Jaquin described his relationships with other people as "trying to bring joy" to his friends and family - and he certainly did that. "I always saw him as a happy student that loved to make others laugh,” wrote Frances Pitre, his Sunday school teacher.  In a series of letters in late July, a pastor, a teacher, a small town's mayor, and others begged officials in the Orleans Parish criminal justice system to show mercy to Jaquin Thomas, a child alleged to have committed a very serious offense.  Jaquin hoped to someday overcome his current circumstances and be able to share his story with others.  

On October 17, Jaquin tragically committed suicide inside the Orleans Justice Center.  

One reason Jaquin came to New Orleans for the summer was to get a job to help his grandmother pay for uniforms for his younger siblings. His grandmother, who is his guardian, has very limited funds and is on a fixed income. She desperately needs assistance to pay for funeral services and associated costs.

 
While Jaquin’s family recognizes the unusual nature of this request, the fact remains that they are left to pay for the funeral of a child and need help to do so.  No matter how serious Jaquin’s alleged crime was, his family should have the chance to properly mourn the loss of this young member of their family.

Any assistance that anyone may be able to provide will mean so much to his family. 

All of Jaquin's friends and family thank you very much.