WASHINGTON, Jan 14, 2010 (AFP) - Donors seeking to help quake-stricken Haiti should send cash and refrain from making shipments of clothing, medicine and other goods, the US agency tasked with international development aid said Thursday.

"The generosity of the American people is best displayed by giving cash at this point. That's the most effective way to provide individual support," said Rajiv Shah, administrator of the Agency for International Development (USAID).

Shah said at a press conference in Washington that a "first wave" of some 250 rescuers were en route to the quake-ravaged country, and that they would be bringing needed provisions.

"We're making active plans for the transport of food and water and other critically needed commodities," he said.