1/2 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 3/4 c. rolled oats

FILLING:

1 lb. dates, pitted and cut-up
1 c. sugar
1 c. water

Cook to consistency of jam. Cool.

Mix first six ingredients until crumbly. Spread half of mixture in 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Spread with filling and add the rest of mixture and pat down. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until brown.