Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Spray a 9-inch square baking pan with baking spray and set aside.
In a sauce pan, add dates, water and sugar. Bring to a boil and cook until mixture thickens (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, and baking soda. Add melted butter, and stir until combined. (Note: The mixture will be dry).
Press half of the flour mixture into the prepared baking pan. Pour filling over the top. Then press the remaining flour mixture over the top of the filling
Bake for 20 minutes, or bars start to turn golden. Let cool completely.
Recipe by Alida's Kitchen at https://www.alidaskitchen.com/2014/01/10/easy-date-bars/