Recently, the United States has seen the development of several initiatives that better link the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program - the primary federal social protection program - and the child welfare system, two systems that have often been at odds despite their overlap. Recent research has highlighted the connection between poverty and child maltreatment. Therefore, says the article, more collaboration between anti-poverty programs and child protection programs can enhance services to families and help to strengthen families, keeping them together and reducing child maltreatment. Recent pilot programs focused on service coordination in the United States have shown promise in improving outcomes for families.
