1 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
1 c. oatmeal
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. hot water
1 tsp. baking soda
2 1/2 c. flour

Cream shortening and sugar; add oatmeal. Add dry ingredients and water alternately to creamed mixture. Put 1/2 mixture in 9x12 inch pan. Spread on cooled filling. Roll rest of dough to fit pan and cover filling.

FILLING:

1 lb. cut up dates or raisins
1 c. water
1 c. sugar

Cook until thick and cool. Bake bars at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.