The Tennessee Office for Refugees (TOR) is a department of Catholic Charities of Tennessee, Inc. designated by the federal Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to administer the state refugee resettlement program. Funded by ORR, the Tennessee Refugee Program helps refugees statewide access cash and medical assistance, initial medical screenings, employment and social adjustment services, as well as English language training that meets their individual needs. The goal of all of these programs is self-sufficiency.

Since TOR has taken over administration for the state government, TOR has helped thousands of displaced persons find new homes in Tennessee. As these new arrivals begin to rebuild their lives here in our state, they all have the same goal in mind, making a home for themselves. The circumstances of leaving their home country may differ from person to person, but all need a new place to start again. TOR helps coordinate with resettlement agencies throughout the state to begin the resettlement process for those who are classified as Refugees, Asylees, Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, Trafficking Victims, Amerasians and Cuban/Hatian Entrants. 

Types of displaced peoples: