A Chama storefront is obscured by snow in this photgraph submitted by a viewer to KOB.com

The New Mexico Department of Public  Safety is now saying that it is collecting some items for the people of Chama who have been snowbound following a storm earlier this week.

Peter Olson of the DPS says the department is collecting diapers, infant formula, milk, fresh produce and roof rakes. 

He also says that there has been an account established at the Bank of America for people who want to make cash donations.

Governor Bill Richardson Tuesday ordered more than a dozen New Mexico National Guard members to deploy to Chama to assist in relief efforts following heavy snows.

There are reports of several structures that have collapsed under the weight of recent heavy snow and many of the roads in the area are blocked, stranding some households.

Part of the roof of a supermarket has collapsed and is threatening other structures and residences, according to a news release from the governor’s office.

The Nationl Weather Service reports that Chama has received more than 33 inches of snow since last Saturday. 

The troops being deployed are part of the New Mexico Guard’s Quick Reaction Force. The contingent will include two Blackhawk helicopters and several high-profile all-wheel-drive trucks.

Richardson on Monday declared the entire County of Rio Arriba to be a disaster area because of heavy snows. That declaration makes available $750,000 in disaster relief funds.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report