A phone number is something most people take for granted these days. Leave your cell phone at home and you’ll quickly realize how dependent you’ve become. For those who don’t even have a roof to call their own, not having a phone number means missed job opportunities, missed doctors appointments, and no way to stay in contact with family.

One technology startup is changing that. GrandCentral Communications is a next-generation personal communications company. They provide consumers with One Number. . . for LifeTM by integrating all existing phones, numbers, and voicemail boxes into one. Besides signing up 10,000 users and receiving accolades in the tech industry, GrandCentral has used their technology to help the homeless with a pilot project in the San Francisco Bay Area Called Project CARE.

Project CARE (Communications and Respect for Everybody) replaces the pay phone as the only form of communication for the homeless using GrandCentral Communications’ technology. Project CARE recognizes the desire for those in need to get back on their feet and begin a new life. An essential element to that proposition is a consistent and reliable phone number - a place where anyone (family, friends, social workers, health care providers, potential employers, etc.) can leave you a message.

“There is a true need among the homeless to be connected to the outside world,” said Craig Walker, CEO of GrandCentral Communications. “With a phone number for life and free voicemail service, the homeless now have the ability to better their lives and stay in touch with loved ones, potential employers and medical personnel. We look forward to our continued work with new partners as we expand into Oakland and beyond.”

Since most of us take voicemail, e-mail, and Instant Messaging for granted, it’s easy to forget that some don’t have any way to stay connected. Project CARE provides homeless with link to the real world and an ability to connect.