It is a myth that children go to "foster care" or become wards of the state immediately upon being removed from parents. They ALWAYS look for stable family first then stable friends of family as a placement. The last resort is foster care if there are no acceptable placements. I work in this field. Also the ultimate goal is to help the child and family and make it a safe place for the child. CPS won't just swoop in and pluck the child out of the home. They would offer substance/ alcohol abuse services first.