Did You Know?

History

  • 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.