Oxnard, Calif. – RMA is proud to announce it has been designated a “Shining Light” ministry by MinistryWatch, a leading independent organization dedicated to advancing financial transparency and accountability in Christian ministries. This prestigious recognition places RMA among the top 24 ministries out of more than 1,000 in the MinistryWatch database to achieve the highest standards across three critical categories: financial efficiency, transparency, and donor confidence.

The MinistryWatch “Shining Light” award recognizes organizations that truly exemplify the biblical mandate to “let our lights shine so that others may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven,” as cited in Matthew 5:16.

“We are deeply honored to receive the ‘Shining Light’ award,” said RMA CEO Todd White. “This designation validates our organization’s unwavering commitment to integrity and stewardship. Our donors trust us to use their gifts effectively and transparently, and this award is a testament to the dedication of our entire team to uphold the highest ethical and financial standards.”

Rigorous Criteria for “Shining Light” Status

To qualify as a “Shining Light,” a ministry must achieve top scores in three distinct areas:

• Financial Efficiency: RMA earned a Five-Star rating, the highest possible score, by demonstrating excellent stewardship of resources across fundraising, investing, operations, and solvency.
• Transparency: RMA received an “A” Transparency Grade, which requires filing a Form 990 with the IRS, being a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), and publicly posting its audited financial statements on its website.
• Donor Confidence: RMA scored a perfect 100 on the Donor Confidence Score, based on 20 comprehensive questions covering governance, statement of faith, and other organizational policies.

MinistryWatch noted the extreme rigor of the criteria, pointing out that only 24 ministries qualified for the “Shining Light” award in 2025.

“This recognition assures our donors that every dollar contributed to RMA to fight homelessness, domestic violence, human trafficking, food insecurity and poverty, is maximized to create the greatest impact possible.”

About RMA

Rescue Mission Alliance operates five outreach ministries: Central Coast, San Fernando, and Ventura County rescue missions, as well food banks in the San Fernando and Antelope valleys. A range of services are provided depending on location, and they include food, shelter, and basic life necessities, recovery programs, vocational training, and housing assistance.

About MinistryWatch

MinistryWatch is an independent organization that provides information on the financial and spiritual condition of Christian ministries, helping donors make wise giving decisions. Its MinistryWatch 1000 Database tracks more than 1,000 ministries, highlighting those that achieve the highest standards of accountability and transparency.

Media Contact: Joann Gillett, VP Development | 805-512-7602 | jgillett@erescuemission.org