Cradle Beach was founded in 1888 as The Fresh Air Mission with the sole purpose of serving underprivileged children from the city of Buffalo.
In 1946, after many years of serving only underprivileged children, the summer camp program took its first group of children with special needs, financed by the Buffalo Rotary Club.
As the needs of the children served by Cradle Beach Camp expanded, the need for a larger, more easily accessible camp was realized. In 1996 the camp was moved to its current location, 8038 Old Lakeshore Rd.
For 10 years Cradle Beach served children from underserved communities in the city of Buffalo through our Project S.O.A.R. Program.
Our Project S.O.A.R. Program provided support to students in a variety of Buffalo Public schools through in-school and after-school programs.
Summer Camp
The move to a larger year-round facility enabled Cradle Beach to expand the programs it offers to children with disabilities and children from low-income families.
Our Summer Camp Program is for everyone! We specialize in working with children with disabilities and children from disadvantaged backgrounds, but all children are welcome!
The cost to send your child to Summer Camp is based on a sliding fee scale, which means enrollment fees will be based upon income, household size and other factors. We do offer financial assistance.
Children ages 8-17 may attend up to two (2) non-consecutive sessions of Summer Camp at Cradle Beach. Our overnight camp runs Monday through Friday for eight sessions throughout the Summer.
Fun Facts
The Cradle Beach Campus is a year-round facility.
In non-summer months, we offer Respite Weekends for individuals with disabilities whose family member is their primary care-taker.
We open our facilities to rental groups for retreats and conferences to organizations, schools, community groups, and more.
Looking for a way to get involved? We have a variety of opportunities!
Volunteer! We are always looking for individuals to volunteer at events as well as at our campus in Angola.
Participate in one of Cradle Beach’s yearly events.
Host your own event to benefit Cradle Beach- dress down day, chicken BBQ, basket raffle, etc.
Are you a past or current staff member that is looking to be more involved? Join our Cradle Beach Staff Alumni Association by clicking here.