Child protective services

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Child Protective Services (CPS) is a government agency that investigates allegations of child abuse or neglect, and if confirmed, intervenes by providing services to the family through a safety plan, in-home monitoring, supervision, or placing the child in foster care which may involve removing them from the custody of their parent or legal guardian.

Some areas use other names, often attempting to reflect more family-centered (as opposed to child-centered) practices, such as "Department of Children and Family Services" ("DCFS"). CPS is also sometimes known by the name "Department of Social Services" ("DSS" or simply "social services" for short), though these terms more often have a broader meaning.

• Children, youth, and family – CYF
• Department of children and families – DCF
• Children and Youth Services - CYS (Pennsylvania only)
• Department of Child Protection and Permanency - DCPP (New Jersey only)
• Administration for Children's Services - ACS (New York City only)

CPS/DCF is a department under a state's health and human services organization.