DENVER -- The homeless in Denver will soon have free voicemail.

Mayor John Hickenlooper will officially launch the program Thursday afternoon. The homeless who take part in the program will have their own phone number and a way to keep in touch with potential employers, case managers, family and others.

"We're confronting Denver's homelessness problem at every turn. Having a simple phone number, something most of us take for granted, can be the key to survival and self-sufficiency for people in crisis or transition. This valuable program will empower Denver's homeless residents and improve their ability to conduct the business of their lives," Hickenlooper said.

A group of private companies developed the service and is picking up the bill.