The New Jersey Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect (NJTFCAN) is in but not of DCF.  The purpose of the New Jersey Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect is to study and develop recommendations regarding the most effective means of improving the quality and scope of child protective and preventative services provided or supported by State government, including a review of the practices and policies utilized by the Child Protection and Permanency (formerly Youth and Family Services) and Family and Community Partnerships (formerly Prevention and Community Partnerships) in the Department of Children and Families.

The Task Force is comprised of volunteer members who are broadly representative of the community, including members who have expertise in the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect.   Its 30 members possess a variety of experience ranging from child protection and law enforcement to advocates for children and parents.