Child Protective Services (CPS) is a specific social service to assist children believed to be neglected or abused by parents or other adults having permanent or temporary care or custody, or parental responsibility. The program also offers service to household or family members who may require intervention to decrease the risk of any continuing physical, sexual or mental abuse or neglect. The first priority of CPS is to safely maintain a child in their home and to protect the child from further harm and maltreatment. Where the caretaker is willing and able, through the provision of services or other assistance, to work toward maintaining safety for the child, no alternative placement is needed. Remaining safely at home or with family is always preferable to placement in foster care.
You can go to the DHS website for more information: http://dhr.maryland.gov/child-protective-services/